A Safe Reopening of Shaw Dog Park

Per the announcement by Mayor Bowser on May 27, DC dog parks will be reopening on May 29. We’ve missed seeing everyone’s four-legged quarantine buddies, and are excited for when the city can soon unlock the park gate! However, a safe reopening and return to a “new normal” starts with responsible practices from all of us. It is important to continue following safe social distancing and other measures. Guidance from DC Health reminds dog park visitors to:

  • Stay at home if you are sick or if you were recently exposed to someone with fever or symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or positive for COVID-19.
  • Avoid close contact with others who are not members of your household.
  • Stay at least 6 feet from other people.
  • Wear a cloth face covering when around other people in a public space. A cloth face covering is not a substitute for physical distancing.
  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and carry hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Practical dog park tips:

  • Monitor crowd size at the dog park before entering. If there are more than 10 people inside the park, please do not enter to avoid crowding.
  • Our dogs can be anxious to go into the park. Please don’t crowd the gate and remember to maintain 6 feet while waiting for other guests to enter/exit.
  • Wear your mask for the safety of others and to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

As a reminder, we now have a temporary dog park at 11th and Rhode Island, NW, during the Banneker High School Renovation Project (next to the skate park).

Thanks for continuing to be responsible during Phase 1 reopening.