Maine Dog Owners: One Park is Closed, But These Are Still Open

If you’ve heard the news out of Thomaston, Maine, it might make you do a double take, because get this, starting May 1st, dogs are banned from Mill River Park for an entire year, according to WMTW . All dogs, period, leash or no leash. 

Why? Well, the rule at Mill River Park happened after ongoing water quality concerns in the nearby St. George River. Officials say testing from the Maine Department of Marine Resources showed microbial levels getting too close to regulatory limits, and pet waste may be part of the issue.

As per the article, the town is calling the temporary closure a necessary step to protect public health and give the river time to recover. This make sense, but until then, where are we going to bring our pups?

Friendly Maine Dog Parks that Are Open Now

The great thing about Maine is that we have other parks for our dogs to play! And the good news is Maine still has a good amount of dog friendly spots to stretch their paws!  

If you’re looking for alternatives check out the list below, courtesy of Visit Maine! 

• Augusta Dog Park
• Quarry Run Dog Park
• East End Beach at Eastern Promenade Park
• Merrymeeting Dog Park

• Kennebunk Dog Park

• South End Dog Park

• Jean H. Kislak Community Dog Park

• Valley Street Dog Park

• Belfast Dog Park at Walsh Field

And Robins Dog Park and Garden in Lewiston is another great fenced-in option with space to roam where I bring my 2 year old Australian Shepherd!

Read More: Maine Mothers Embrace Experiences Over Material Possessions 

If you’re willing to go a little more scenic, the trails around Bradbury Mountain State Park offer that classic Maine mix of fresh air, views, and extremely tuckered out dogs by the time you’re done. 

 It’s a reminder that in Maine, we take our outdoor spaces seriously!