On-Demand Dog Park Safety Course

To qualify for membership, applicants must first complete a one-time, on-demand Dog Park Safety Course.  This course is offered virtually on a monthly basis and is comprised of a series of videos and accompanying quiz questions at the end of each video session.  Applicants must answer quiz questions at a rate of 80% or higher to be considered for membership.

The process for completing the course is as follows:

• Applicant will register for the Dog Park Safety Course for the month of their choosing prior to the 1^st of the month.
• At the beginning of the month, applicant will receive an email from staff outlining the process as well as a separate email granting them access to the course.
• Applicant will complete the 1-hour course and 12 quiz questions. Applicant must answer 80 percent of the quiz questions correctly in order to proceed.
• Applicant will have until midnight on the night of the 21^st of the month to complete the course. If applicant does not complete  the course in the allotted time, they will need to pay a $5 administrative fee to regain access for a following month.

Membership Application

Upon completing the Dog Park Safety Course, applicants must submit the following to complete their membership application:

• Completed Dog Park Membership Application
• Proof of Ferndale residency (if applicable)
• Proof of dog licensing through Oakland County (or other municipality)
  • Receipt from purchase, OR
  • Photo of physical license with current year or later
• Current dog vaccination records
  • Must include current vaccinations for Rabies, combo boosters (DHPP or DAPP), Leptospirosis, and Bordetella
  • All vaccinations must be current as of the date of membership registration
• Annual membership fee
  • $40 for residents
  • $65 for non-residents
• $10 key fob fee

All application materials can be submitted via the electronic application form or via email at ejohnson@ferndalemi.gov. If you prefer to submit physical copies of your materials, you can bring or mail them to the following address:

Ferndale Parks and Recreation

1938 Burdette St.

Ste. 109

Ferndale, MI 48220

Upon receiving and reviewing application materials, a staff member will contact you to process credit card payments. Required fees can also be paid in cash or check at our office.  Checks must be made payable to the City of Ferndale.

To ensure a safe environment for dogs and humans, we ask that all members adhere to the following rules of use: 

• To visit the dog park, all dog owners must purchase an annual membership with the Parks and Recreation Department.
• Proof of required medical records and a current dog license must be presented to purchase a membership.
• Dogs must be healthy, fully vaccinated, parasite-free, licensed, and wearing identification tags.
• Dogs with a history of aggressive behavior are prohibited.
• Memberships cannot be issued to puppies less than 4 months old due to vaccination concerns.
• Owners are legally responsible for their dogs and any injuries caused by their dogs. While in the enclosure, dogs are allowed to be off the leash, but not out of control or out of the owner's sight.
• All off-leash dogs must be under the voice control of their owners at all times.
• The maximum number of dogs per adult is 2 and both dogs must remain in the same run area as their owner. Owners cannot leave the dog(s) in the run area without supervision.
• Dogs must be accompanied by an adult (18 years or older) at all times. Children ages 5-17 may only visit the dog park with an adult.
• Dogs in heat are not permitted at the park.
• Owners must clean up after their dog(s). Efforts will be made by the City of Ferndale to provide bags and waste receptacles in the park. Be prepared to address your pets' waste by having a bag with you in the event the dispensers are empty.
• No smoking, glass containers, or human food of any kind are allowed anywhere in the park. This is to ensure the park stays clean and prevents dogs from begging for food or showing aggressive behavior.
• Do not allow anyone into the park that does not have a membership. This is for you and your pets' safety. Encourage visitors to pick up a packet of information and register to become a member.

Failure to comply with the above rules may result in a revocation of your membership. Refunds shall not be provided for revoked or suspended privileges. 

Notice a problem? Please report it to the Ferndale Parks & Recreation Department at 248-544-6767. If emergency injuries or altercations occur, call 911. If non-emergency animal-related injuries or altercations occur, call Oakland County Animal Control at 248-391-4102.

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