Downey Dog Park: Pups can frolic in fenced-in yard
Downey Dog Park is one of the longest dog parks in Orlando — even when you think the yard ends, it doesn’t. While both yards have many of the basics with ample seating and shade, it seems the park largely caters to its larger visitors, with far more amenities in the big dog area than the little dog yard.
Pet parents should take note that the park is decently close to East Colonial Drive, so the sounds of cars whizzing by can frighten scaredy-pups.
Address: 10107
Parking: lots with dog park.
Flowers
Ave.,
Orlando.
Hours: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. (during summer) and 8 a.m.-6 p.m. (during winter) Monday-Sunday.
There are two parking lots of spaces near the
Big dog/small dog areas: Pups up to 30 pounds can play in the small dog yard and those over 30 pounds can head over to the big dog yard. Plus, there’s a separate, gated area in the back of the big dog area — the secret spot — that can be left open or drawn shut.
Pet waste stations: The majority of the pet waste stations (six in the big dog yard and one in the small) just offer poop bags, but there are two (one in each yard) that also have a garbage can — though neither is attached. In addition, there is a pet waste station with just bags in the entry to the two parks. There are six trash cans in the big dog yard, one in the secret spot and three in the small dog yard.
Water stations: There are two hybrid water stations in the big dog yard, with some freestanding bowls scattered throughout. Tiny pooches have but one lone plastic water bowl.
Benches/seating: In the small dog area, there are three benches and two picnic tables. The big dog yard has 12 benches and two picnic tables, plus the secret spot has two of each.
Amenities: The dog park features double-gated entryways to prevent escapes. Both yards are largely shaded by numerous trees — which is great on hot, humid days but not so great on chilly ones.
Both are simple yards, however, there are far more amenities for large canines. For starters, the big dog yard is, well, much bigger than the small one. While little pooches have room to roam, the other yard is at least four times as big — with more seating options, pet waste stations and trash cans. The large dog area has two timeout pens for those that are getting a little too rambunctious, while the small pups are left to fend for themselves. Need to hydrate? It’s not a problem for huge pooches that have two fountains at their disposal, but small fur babies have one bowl that must be filled by the water stations in the other yard. And the large dog area also has a bulletin board with various announcements, including some relevant to pup parents.
But one benefit of the small dog area is that it’s mostly grass with some sand, while the big dog yard is mainly sand.
The dog park is part of a larger park that has tons of seating, beautiful lake views, a splash pad, a skate park, playgrounds, sports facilities and more.
Leash policy: Canines can be unleashed once inside either yard. Leashed dogs are allowed throughout most of Downey Park, except where noted.
Cost: Free
To learn more: Call 407-254-9180 or visit orangecountyfl.net.