Bundy Dog Park

For dog owners living in the heart of Washington, D.C., finding a dedicated and suitable space for their beloved canine companions to exercise and socialize is essential. In the bustling Shaw neighborhood of Northwest D.C., Bundy Dog Park, located at 498-400 P Street NW, stands as a prominent and often lauded amenity. This fenced-in park, which opened its gates on April 7, 2012, has become a vital hub for dogs to play off-leash and for their human companions to connect within the urban landscape. It's a testament to community efforts to provide safe recreational opportunities for pets in the District.

The existence of a well-maintained dog park like Bundy is crucial in a densely populated city like Washington, D.C. It offers a much-needed outlet for dogs to burn energy, practice social skills, and relieve themselves in a designated area, preventing issues in other public spaces. Customer reviews offer a mixed but insightful perspective: one reviewer, though experiencing a concerning incident, still acknowledged that the park is "very clean, fake green turf, and a long stretch of grass with ample room for dogs to run," and another unequivocally declared it the "Best public dog park in DC." This duality highlights both the park's strengths in terms of facilities and the perennial importance of responsible pet ownership and awareness within shared dog park environments.

This comprehensive article will delve into the specifics of Bundy Dog Park, providing D.C. locals with all the information they need to make informed decisions about their visits. We will cover its precise location and accessibility, the services and features it offers, potential community events, and essential contact details. By understanding the nuances of this urban dog haven, D.C. pet owners can best utilize this valuable resource for their furry family members.

Bundy Dog Park is conveniently situated in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood of Northwest Washington, D.C., with its address listed as 498-400 P Street NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA. More precisely, it is located on the south side of P Street, between 5th Street and New Jersey Avenue. The park's entrance is notably in the middle of the block, directly across the street from the KIPP DC campus, making it relatively easy to spot for first-time visitors.

For D.C. residents, the park's central location in Shaw means it is highly accessible by various modes of transport. Many locals can reach the park by walking, especially those living in the surrounding residential areas. For those further afield, the park is within reasonable proximity to public transportation options, including Metro bus stops and potentially Metro stations (such as Shaw-Howard University on the Green/Yellow lines), although walking distance from a Metro station should always be confirmed. For drivers, the park benefits from "nearby free parking" or "street parking," which is a significant advantage in urban D.C. where parking can often be a challenge.

The park is open daily from 7:00 a.m. until dusk, providing ample time for visits throughout the day. This accessibility, combined with flexible hours, makes Bundy Dog Park a practical choice for D.C. dog owners looking for a consistent and convenient spot for their dogs to exercise and socialize within the city.

Bundy Dog Park provides several key services aimed at creating a functional and maintained environment for off-leash dog play. While it is a public park, the management efforts by Friends of Bundy Park, Inc. ensure specific amenities are regularly addressed.

• Fenced Off-Leash Area: The primary service is a securely fenced enclosure where dogs can run and play without a leash. The park is described as a "long stretch of grass with ample room for dogs to run," providing significant space for exercise. It is equipped with a "double entry gate system to ensure that unleashed dogs cannot escape."
• Artificial Turf and Green Space: The park features a combination of "fake green turf" and a "long stretch of grass." The turf provides a durable, cleanable surface, while the grass offers a more natural feel. The website for Friends of Bundy Park, Inc. mentions contracting with "ScoopSoldiers to clean and empty waste stations, and restock doggy waste bags, once a week, and to deodorize the entire dog park once a month," highlighting a commitment to cleanliness.
• Waste Disposal Stations: Essential for maintaining hygiene, waste stations are provided within the park, and doggy waste bags are restocked weekly. Dog handlers are required to "collect and bag all solid waste produced by their dog(s) and dispose of it in the waste stations provided."
• Seating Areas: The park includes "a few benches" and potentially other seating options, allowing owners to relax and supervise their dogs.
• Rules and Regulations Enforcement: Friends of Bundy Park, Inc. manages the park in partnership with KIPP DC and works with the DC Metropolitan Police Department to enforce posted rules, which incorporate those established by the DC Department of Parks and Recreation. This includes rules regarding dog licensing, vaccinations, aggressive behavior (not permitted), and maximum dog capacity (no more than 18 dogs at one time; 30-minute limit if others are waiting).

It's important to note based on user reviews that some amenities like dedicated water fountains or separate small dog areas are not consistently available or explicitly mentioned. One review explicitly states "There is no separate small dog area." Another review, while praising the park, did not mention explicit water access, suggesting owners should "bring water and toys" as a best practice. The park's website also does not explicitly list water fountains, though it is "designed to cater to dogs' needs." Owners should come prepared with water for their pets.

Bundy Dog Park boasts several key features and highlights that contribute to its standing as a popular choice for dog owners in Washington, D.C. These attributes, combined with community efforts, make it a notable urban pet amenity.

• Spacious and Fenced Off-Leash Area: The park offers a "large area" described as a "long stretch of grass with ample room for dogs to run." Its secure fencing provides a safe environment for off-leash play, giving owners peace of mind.
• Combination of Turf and Natural Grass: The inclusion of both "fake green turf" and "a long stretch of grass" offers a versatile play surface. The turf is lauded for being "very clean" and easy to maintain, while the grass provides a more natural feel.
• Community Management and Volunteer Efforts: A significant highlight is that "Friends of Bundy Park, Inc. is a private, non-profit corporation that manages Bundy Dog Park in partnership with KIPP DC." This group, "comprised completely of neighborhood volunteers," dedicates time and money to "maintain and improve the dog park and enforce its rules." This strong community involvement is a testament to the park's value to locals and contributes to its overall well-being.
• Regular Professional Cleaning: The park contracts with "ScoopSoldiers to clean and empty waste stations, and restock doggy waste bags, once a week, and to deodorize the entire dog park once a month." This professional upkeep helps maintain a hygienic environment, crucial for an urban dog park.
• Ample Parking and Accessibility: "Nearby free parking" and "ample parking" are frequently mentioned as positive features, making the park convenient to access. Its central location in Shaw also makes it reachable by public transport for many D.C. residents.
• Social Hub: Beyond exercise, the park serves as a social hub for "friendly people and playful pups," offering D.C. residents an opportunity to connect with fellow dog owners and build community.

One aspect to consider, as highlighted by a critical review, is the lack of a separate small dog area and potential safety concerns with larger, aggressive dogs. While the park rules state that "aggressive dogs are not permitted" and must be removed, the lack of physical separation means owners of small or timid dogs should exercise extra caution, especially during busy times. This feedback suggests a key area for potential improvement for the Friends of Bundy Park, Inc. as they strive to provide a safe space for "healthy, well-tempered dogs in an urban environment."

As a public dog park managed by a non-profit organization (Friends of Bundy Park, Inc.) in partnership with KIPP DC and the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation, Bundy Dog Park does not offer commercial promotions or special offers in the traditional retail sense. Its primary purpose is to provide a free, accessible community amenity for dog owners in Washington, D.C.

However, D.C. residents who utilize Bundy Dog Park or are interested in supporting its upkeep can engage with the park through various community-driven initiatives and potential collaborations:

• Donations: Friends of Bundy Park, Inc. is a volunteer-led non-profit, and "All costs of dog park improvements, maintenance, cleaning and supplies are funded completely through donations." While not a "promotion," making a donation directly supports the park's continued operation and improvement, which benefits all users.
• Volunteer Opportunities: The Friends of Bundy Park, Inc. group is "comprised completely of neighborhood volunteers who donate their time and money to maintain and improve the dog park." D.C. residents can "volunteer" their time, which is a significant way to contribute to the park's well-being.
• Community Events: The Friends of Bundy Park, Inc. website occasionally lists past events, such as fundraisers or community gatherings. While no current broad promotions are listed, these events serve as opportunities for the community to come together, often with local pet-related businesses. For instance, a past "Spring into Summer Bundy Fundraiser" involved "free giveaways, dog trainer tips and a gift basket raffle" in partnership with Unleashed by Petco. Local D.C. residents should check the Bundy Dog Park website or local community listings for future events.
• Local Pet Business Collaborations: Nearby pet stores, groomers, or veterinarians in the Shaw neighborhood or wider D.C. area might occasionally offer discounts or special events that align with the dog park community. It's always worth checking with local pet businesses for any partnerships they may have.

To stay informed about how to support the park or any future community-led initiatives, D.C. locals are encouraged to visit the official Bundy Dog Park website (bundydogpark.org) and look for updates or contact information for the Friends of Bundy Park, Inc. group.

Bundy Dog Park is a public amenity managed by Friends of Bundy Park, Inc. in partnership with KIPP DC and the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation. As such, it does not have a direct, on-site contact person or separate phone number like a commercial business.

Address: 498-400 P St NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA

For general questions, concerns, or to volunteer regarding Bundy Dog Park, D.C. residents should direct their inquiries to the managing non-profit organization:

• Email: bundydogparkdc@gmail.com (This email, attributed to "Kacey (Sunny's mom)," is provided on the park's official website for questions, concerns, or volunteering.)
• Official Website: The Bundy Dog Park website (bundydogpark.org) is the primary source for comprehensive information, including rules and regulations, hours of operation, and updates. Visitors are strongly encouraged to check this website before their visit.
• Emergencies: For emergencies, such as animal bites or other serious incidents within the park, visitors should immediately contact the DC Metropolitan Police Department via 911. Animal bites should also be reported to DC Animal Control at (202) 576-6664 within twenty-four (24) hours of the incident.

While there isn't a direct phone number for the park itself, the provided email and the official website serve as effective channels for communication and access to information for the D.C. community.

For dog owners residing in Washington, D.C., particularly those in the Shaw neighborhood and surrounding areas, Bundy Dog Park at 498-400 P Street NW stands as a highly suitable and essential urban amenity. In a city where open green spaces are precious, this fenced, off-leash park provides a critical outlet for canine exercise and socialization. Its spacious layout, featuring both artificial turf and natural grass, offers ample room for dogs to run and play, addressing a fundamental need for city-dwelling pups.

What truly makes Bundy Dog Park suitable for D.C. locals is the remarkable dedication of the Friends of Bundy Park, Inc., a volunteer-led non-profit. Their consistent efforts in maintaining cleanliness, restocking waste bags, and even deodorizing the park monthly, funded entirely by donations, highlight a deep community commitment. This level of care ensures a more pleasant and hygienic environment for all visitors. The park's well-defined rules, accessible parking, and convenient operating hours further enhance its appeal, making it a practical choice for daily visits or weekend outings.

While the absence of a separate small dog area and the need for owners to bring their own water are considerations, the core value of Bundy Dog Park as a safe, dedicated, and community-supported off-leash space remains paramount. It's a place where D.C. residents can truly connect with fellow dog lovers, foster their pets' well-being, and enjoy a vibrant urban park experience. For any local seeking a clean, active, and community-driven environment for their dog, Bundy Dog Park is undoubtedly a top choice that significantly enriches the pet-friendly landscape of the District of Columbia.