The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park

For dog owners across Connecticut, finding a safe, dedicated, and inviting space where our canine companions can truly stretch their legs, play freely, and socialize with other pups is a top priority. In the coastal town of Waterford, residents and visitors alike are fortunate to have access to The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park. This well-regarded facility provides a crucial off-leash environment, designed to cater to the unique needs of our furry friends, while also fostering a sense of community among pet parents.

Waterford, a community known for its scenic beauty and commitment to public amenities, has invested in this dog park as a testament to its understanding of responsible pet ownership. The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park is more than just a fenced enclosure; it's a dynamic space that allows dogs to burn off energy, practice essential social skills, and strengthen the bond with their human companions. From energetic large breeds needing ample room to sprint, to more delicate small dogs preferring a quieter play area, this park aims to accommodate a diverse range of canine visitors.

This comprehensive article will delve into all aspects of The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park, offering valuable insights into its convenient location, the essential services and features it provides, and why it has become such a valued spot for dog owners throughout Connecticut. We’ll cover what to expect when you visit, highlight its unique attributes, and explain why it’s particularly suitable for locals seeking a high-quality outdoor experience with their cherished pets.

The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park is conveniently located at 128 Clark Ln, Waterford, CT 06385, USA. This address places it strategically within a larger general park space, often associated with Stenger Farm Park. Its location in southeastern Connecticut makes it highly accessible for residents within Waterford and from surrounding towns in New London County, such as New London, East Lyme, and Groton. The park’s proximity to major local roads ensures straightforward navigation for visitors arriving by car.

Being integrated into a larger park complex means that the dog park likely benefits from established parking facilities, making it easy for visitors to access the off-leash area. Reviews indicate that the park is within walking distance of other local points of interest, suggesting good connectivity within the community. The park's operational hours are generally from 9 AM to sunset, though it is important to note that the park may close during inclement weather or if conditions like iciness make it unsafe. For Connecticut locals, this accessible location provides a convenient option for regular visits, integrating easily into daily routines.

The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park provides essential services designed to ensure a clean, safe, and enjoyable experience for all users, emphasizing responsible pet ownership.

• Separate Fenced Areas: The park features distinct, securely fenced spaces. There is a section specifically for large dogs and a separate area for small dogs. This separation is crucial for allowing dogs of varying sizes and temperaments to play safely and comfortably, reducing potential stress and conflicts.
• Waste Bag Dispensers: The park is equipped with readily available pet waste bag dispensers, actively encouraging owners to clean up after their pets and maintain a hygienic environment for all.
• Trash Receptacles: Ample trash cans are provided throughout the park for convenient and proper disposal of pet waste and other rubbish, contributing to the park's overall cleanliness.
• Benches: Seating options in the form of benches are available within the park, offering comfortable spots for human companions to rest and supervise their dogs during their visit.

The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park boasts several key features that make it an attractive and functional destination for dog owners in Connecticut.

• Decent Sized and Open Spaces: Reviewers consistently highlight that the park offers "decent sized spaces" and is "nice big and open," providing ample room for dogs to run, fetch, and engage in vigorous play.
• Grassy Terrain: The ground cover is primarily grass, which is often preferred by dogs and owners alike for its natural feel and gentler impact on paws. While some areas may be dirt, especially with heavy use, the prevalence of grass is a positive.
• Friendly Community: The park often sees "friendly pet owners," contributing to a welcoming and positive atmosphere for both dogs and their human companions. This social aspect is a significant highlight for many visitors.
• Access to a Nearby Hiking Trail: A notable feature is the park's proximity to a hiking trail within the larger Stenger Farm Park. This allows owners to extend their outing beyond the off-leash area, enjoying a leashed walk on scenic trails.
• Thoughtful Design for Separation: The clear distinction between large and small dog areas is a major benefit, ensuring a more tailored and safe play experience for different dog sizes.

It's important for visitors to be aware of certain aspects based on user reviews: there is generally "no water" inside the park, so owners should remember to bring their own water for their dogs. Shade may also be limited, especially in the main sections, making sun protection a consideration during warmer months. Additionally, the park may close due to inclement weather, such as iciness, so checking conditions beforehand is advisable. The rules stipulate that dogs must be spayed or neutered and cannot be aggressive. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and children under five are not permitted in the park for safety reasons.

As a public municipal facility managed by the Town of Waterford Recreation and Parks Department, The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park does not typically run commercial promotions or special discounts. Its primary "offer" is its very existence: a free, accessible, and well-maintained public space dedicated to canine recreation. The value it provides is in the form of a vital area for safe off-leash exercise and essential socialization for the community's dogs.

However, the Waterford Recreation and Parks Department or local animal welfare organizations may occasionally host or promote special events related to pet welfare, training, or community gatherings at the park. These could include pet adoption drives, educational workshops on responsible dog ownership, or community clean-up days. For information on any such community-led initiatives, Connecticut residents are encouraged to check the official Town of Waterford website, particularly the Recreation and Parks Department section, or local community calendars. These resources are the best way to stay informed about any pet-related events or programs that might be connected to the dog park.

For inquiries regarding The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park, including its rules, maintenance concerns, or any operational updates, the primary contact is the Town of Waterford Recreation and Parks Department.

• Address: 152 0119500, 128 Clark Ln, Waterford, CT 06385, USA
• Phone: (860) 444-5881 (Waterford Recreation and Parks Department)

The official Town of Waterford website (www.waterfordct.org) is an excellent resource for detailed rules, hours of operation (9 AM to sunset), and any specific announcements regarding park closures due to weather or maintenance. Users are encouraged to review the rules posted at the park and on the town's website, which include requirements for licensing, vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and guidelines regarding aggressive behavior and child safety.

The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park is an exceptionally suitable and highly valued resource for local dog owners throughout Connecticut, particularly for those residing in Waterford and its surrounding communities. Its thoughtful design, which includes clearly separated areas for large and small dogs, is a significant advantage. This crucial feature ensures that dogs of varying sizes and temperaments can play safely and comfortably, minimizing potential conflicts and maximizing enjoyment for both pets and their owners. This focus on safety and appropriate play environments makes it a standout choice among dog parks in our state.

The park's ample, open grassy spaces provide plenty of room for dogs to run, chase, and explore, catering to their natural instincts and providing the necessary physical exercise for their well-being. While owners should remember to bring their own water and be mindful of limited shade, these are minor considerations easily addressed with proper planning. The consistent presence of waste bags and trash cans actively promotes responsible pet ownership, contributing to a clean and pleasant environment for all users.

Beyond its physical attributes, The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park fosters a welcoming and friendly community atmosphere. It serves as a regular gathering spot where local dog owners can connect, share experiences, and build friendships, all while their dogs enjoy healthy socialization. The added benefit of having a hiking trail nearby allows for a more varied outing, combining off-leash play with a leisurely leashed walk in nature, catering to a wider range of activity preferences.

In essence, The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park is a vital amenity that significantly enhances the quality of life for pets and their families in Southeastern Connecticut. It serves as a testament to Waterford's commitment to its residents, providing a functional, well-maintained, and community-oriented space where dogs can thrive and their owners can enjoy the benefits of a well-exercised and socialized companion. For any Connecticut local seeking a reliable, safe, and engaging environment for their beloved canine friend, this park is an excellent and highly recommended choice.