Contributed by Dr. Sue Nielsen
Off Leash dog parks in Sarasota County are called Paw Parks and are dotted throughout the county.
Arlington, Lakeview, and 17th Street and Paw Parks are in Sarasota and Woodmere and Brohard Paw Parks are in Venice. This map highlights the parks and their locations.
Each Paw Park has a separate fenced in area for large and small dogs, water fountains for dogs, waste disposal bags & trash cans, and some type of seating. Hours of operation are from sunrise to sunset. Free parking is available. Before going to a dog park, please be sure you are following county ordinances, know your dog park etiquette, and be prepared to have a great time!
The Paw Parks are subject to Sarasota County Code which requires the following:
- All dogs must be licensed and have current vaccinations. Rabies is required every 3 years in Sarasota County
- ·Dog owners are required to pick up excrement and dispose of it properly
- Do not allow your dog to be a public nuisance (barking, aggression, poor behavior)
Practicing good dog park etiquette will help ensure a safe outing – this video highlights some basics. s very important and please review before taking your dog out for some off leash play. The more you know ahead of time, the more likely your visit will be a positive experience.
The dog parks operate mostly on an honor system – you are trusting that other owners will follow the rules — but never leave your dog’s safety to chance. Stay in close proximity and keep your eyes on your dog. Only bring a well socialized, friendly dog and should be under your voice control. Keep your leash with you at all times. Do not bring treats or favorite toys with you. Learn common dog behavior so you can carefully intervene if necessary.
Here are some unique details about each Paw Park:
17th Street Paw Park – 4570 17th Street, Sarasota (between Honore and Beneva
- · Very large area for both small and large dogs
- · Separate double-gated entries
- · Agility equipment on large dog side – only dog park with equipment
- · Mostly sunny areas, good grass, very few trees, but some shade
- · Busy, often visited park
- · Port-a-potties in close proximity to the park
Arlington – 2650 Waldemere Street, Sarasota
- · A two minute walk from parking lot to dog park; not good signage
- · Not much area for small dog side but baseball field size for large dogs
- · Limited seating – one bench on small dog side
- · Close to Arlington Park for a nice walk with the dog on leash
- · Difficult to find any restrooms nearby
- · Gate between small and large dog section easily breached by small dog
Lakeview -7150 Lago Street, Sarasota
- · Good sized park for both large and small dogs
- · Lots and lots of shade on both sides
- · Plenty of seating
- · Not very busy on small dog side; large dog side variable
- · Common entrance for both small/large dogs
- · Restrooms a short walk down the street
Woodmere – 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd, Venice
- · Short, scenic walk over a small bridge to get to the dog parks
- · Good sized for both small and large dogs
- · Shady and sunny areas
- · Many benches and picnic tables
- · Gate from large to small dog with open area in need of repair
- · Beautiful setting with dense trees around the perimeter
- · One spot in small dog section where a dog could be cornered by other dogs
Brohard – 6000 Harbor Drive South, Venice 
- · Small fenced in” time out” area for misbehaving dogs
- · Dog shower station on large dog side to clean after hanging out at the beach
- · Short walk to the dedicated dog beach – no size limits at the beach
- · Great beach for dogs to run, hang out, and go in the water – only dog beach in Sarasota
- · Large, clean full bathrooms near the park
- · Both large and small sides have sunny and shady areas, moderate sized parks
The Sarasota Paw Park rules are on signs at each park but often are only visible if inside the large dog section. More information can be found on the Sarasota County Parks site here.