Daisy Knight Dog Park

For dog owners in Troy, Michigan, and surrounding communities, finding a dedicated and well-equipped space for their furry companions to run, play, and socialize off-leash is a top priority. Daisy Knight Dog Park, located at 3410 Livernois Rd, Troy, MI 48084, USA, stands out as a key destination, offering a controlled and enriching environment for canine fun. This park provides a much-needed outlet for dogs to burn energy, interact with other pups, and enjoy the outdoors in a secure setting.

Daisy Knight Dog Park is a testament to the City of Troy's commitment to providing high-quality recreational facilities for all its residents, including those with four legs. Since its opening in 2017, the park has evolved, adding amenities to enhance the experience for both pets and their owners. While it operates on a membership basis, this structure helps ensure the park's maintenance and helps create a community of responsible pet parents, making it a reliable and often cherished resource for locals seeking a safe and vibrant space for their dogs.

Daisy Knight Dog Park is conveniently situated at 3410 Livernois Rd, Troy, MI 48084, USA. This prime location places it between Wattles and Big Beaver Road, making it highly accessible for residents across Troy and other Metro Detroit suburbs. Its position directly off Livernois Road ensures easy navigation for visitors.

The park is part of the larger P. Terry & Barbara Knight Park, a 19-acre community park that also serves as an entrance to Phase One of the Troy Trail system. This integration into a broader park area means ample surrounding green space and accessibility to other recreational opportunities for families. While specific parking is provided for the dog park, being part of a larger park system generally implies convenient access.

Accessibility to Daisy Knight Dog Park is via a key fob system, which is provided upon purchasing a membership. This controlled entry system enhances security and ensures that only registered, vaccinated, and licensed dogs are using the facility. The park is generally open daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, offering extensive hours that accommodate various schedules, from early morning romps to evening play sessions. It’s always a good idea to check the Troy Recreation website for any updates to hours or temporary closures, especially during severe weather.

Daisy Knight Dog Park provides essential services and amenities specifically designed for an optimal off-leash dog park experience. As a membership-based park, it offers a more controlled and well-maintained environment compared to some free public options.

• Separate Fenced Areas: A significant feature is the provision of two separate fenced-in areas: one for small dogs (25 lbs or less) and another for medium/large dogs (greater than 25 lbs). This separation is crucial for the safety and comfort of all dogs, allowing them to play with companions of appropriate size and energy levels.

• Off-Leash Play: Within these secure, double-gated enclosures, dogs are permitted to play off-leash, providing them with the freedom to run, chase, and socialize naturally.

• Water Fountains for Dogs: The park is equipped with water fountains specifically designed for dogs, ensuring that pups stay hydrated during their playtime, particularly important during Michigan's warmer months.

• Waste Disposal Stations: To maintain cleanliness, the park provides doggy dispensers (waste bags) and receptacles for proper waste disposal. Owners are required to clean up after their dogs, contributing to a hygienic environment.

• Restrooms and Shelter: On-site restrooms and a park shelter are available, enhancing the comfort and convenience for human visitors. A small picnic shelter pavilion was added in 2018.

• Varied Play Environments: Beyond the main open areas, the park has expanded to include a third fenced-in area with a fountain in a pond for dogs to swim in, offering a unique water feature. Additionally, a fourth fenced-in area in the woods allows dogs to explore through a hike in wooded areas, providing diverse terrains and sensory experiences.

Daisy Knight Dog Park stands out with several key features that make it a premier choice for dog owners in Troy:

• Membership-Based Access: The park operates on a membership model, requiring an annual fee and a key fob for entry. This system helps fund maintenance and ensures that all dogs using the park are registered, licensed, and up-to-date on vaccinations (including rabies), promoting a safer environment. Memberships are per household and are valid for one year from the date of purchase.

• Expansive Play Areas: The park offers generous space for dogs to run. It features a "large area to run in," with the two main areas providing plenty of room for active play. The addition of varied environments like a swimming pond and wooded trails further enhances the play experience.

• Enhanced Safety Measures: The double-gated entrance provides an extra layer of security, preventing accidental escapes. The strict membership requirements and rules (e.g., no aggressive dogs, dogs must be leashed upon entering/leaving, maximum two dogs per owner) contribute to a controlled and safer environment.

• Continuous Improvements: Since its opening in 2017, the City Parks Department has actively added amenities, including more off-leash sites, patron restrooms, a picnic shelter, the swimming pond, and the wooded area. This ongoing development shows a commitment to enhancing the park experience.

• Convenient Location: Situated in Troy, it’s easily accessible for local residents, making it simple to incorporate regular park visits into a busy schedule.

While a previous reviewer expressed frustration regarding the fees and perceived "bare bones" nature, it's important to consider the array of features and ongoing improvements. The membership fees are utilized for the maintenance, improvements, and supervision that enable these specific features (like separate areas, water fountains, and expanded zones) that may not be present in entirely free, less-regulated parks. Owners are responsible for filling in any holes caused by digging and ensuring their dog wears its current county license tag.

As a public facility managed by Troy Recreation, Daisy Knight Dog Park's "promotions" primarily revolve around its membership structure and the value it provides.

• Annual Membership Rates: The park requires an annual membership, with different pricing tiers for residents and non-residents, offering a consistent access model:

  • $35 per year for Troy residents
  • $45 per year for non-residents

  These prices typically include two dogs from the same household. Memberships are per household and are valid for one year from the date of purchase. They are not pro-rated and are non-refundable.

• Discounts on Dog Events: Membership to Daisy Knight Dog Park may include discounts on other dog-related events or programs hosted by Troy Recreation. This adds value beyond just park access.

• Family Night Out/Community Center Member Benefits: While not directly for the dog park, current and active members of the Troy Community Center sometimes receive discounts on other Troy Recreation programs. Keep an eye on the Troy Recreation Events Calendar, as some general city events might feature dog-friendly aspects or tie-ins.

To purchase a membership, visit the Troy Community Center in person during administrative hours. It's recommended to bring proof of valid dog license for Oakland County and current vaccination records. The cost for a key fob replacement is $3.

For more information about Daisy Knight Dog Park, including membership requirements, rules, or current operating status, you can contact the City of Troy's Parks and Recreation Department.

Address: 3410 Livernois Rd, Troy, MI 48084, USA (Park Location)

Phone: (248) 524-3484 (Troy Recreation Department)

Mobile Phone: +1 248-524-3484

Website: rec.troymi.gov/dogpark (Official Troy Recreation page for Daisy Knight Dog Park)

Email: troydogpark@troymi.gov (as listed on some municipal resources) or parksandreconline@troymi.gov (for specific inquiries regarding membership/access).

It is always advisable to visit the official website or call directly for the most current information, especially concerning membership applications, required documentation, and any changes to park rules or hours.

Daisy Knight Dog Park in Troy, Michigan, is an exceptionally suitable and valuable resource for local dog owners, offering a dedicated and well-regulated environment that addresses many needs unique to urban and suburban pet ownership. Despite initial critiques regarding its fee structure, the park's continuous development and inherent features demonstrate its strong suitability for the Michigan community.

The most significant advantage for locals is the provision of safe and secure off-leash areas. The park's fully fenced enclosures, coupled with a double-gated entry system, provide crucial peace of mind for owners. The thoughtful separation of small and large dog areas prevents potential conflicts and allows dogs to play comfortably with peers of appropriate size and energy levels. This structured environment is far safer than unofficial off-leash spots, minimizing risks for both dogs and people. The membership requirement, while a cost, directly contributes to maintaining this safety and the overall quality of the park, ensuring users are responsible and their dogs are vaccinated and licensed.

Beyond safety, Daisy Knight Dog Park offers diverse and engaging play experiences. The inclusion of water fountains for dogs, a swimming pond, and a unique wooded trail area means that dogs aren't just running in an open field; they have varied environments to explore, promoting both physical and mental stimulation. This variety keeps visits fresh and engaging for active dogs. The presence of restrooms and shelters also significantly enhances the comfort for human companions, encouraging longer, more relaxed visits.

Finally, as a facility managed by Troy Recreation, the park benefits from a commitment to ongoing improvement and community integration. Since its inception, the city has invested in adding new features and amenities, demonstrating a responsiveness to user needs. This continuous development ensures the park remains a high-quality resource. For Troy residents, having such a comprehensive and evolving dog park so conveniently located provides an invaluable opportunity for their dogs to thrive, socialize, and get essential exercise in a safe, controlled, and well-maintained environment. It's a key part of what makes Troy a great place to be a dog owner.