Q: I live in Miami with a service dog. I take him to a dog park that requires leashes but, unfortunately, most of the owners don't comply. My dog has been attacked three times by unleashed dogs. My calls to Parks and Recreation have not been returned. I'm thinking about taking the advice of some friends and carrying a Taser.

A: With precious few dog parks in Miami-Dade County, it's a shame to hear about experiences like yours. Make a nuisance of yourself if you must, to get a satisfactory response from the Parks and Recreation Department.

Don't even think about carrying a Taser, however. Though considered relatively safe for humans, they're often deadly for dogs.

As with all places where dogs congregate, unwelcome interactions are bound to occur at dog parks, but can be kept to a minimum if everyone follows a few clear rules:

• Observe park regulations. If leashes are required, its usually because there's no enclosure to contain interactions and allow for proper supervision. It also allows those whose dogs don't play well with others to remain outside the designated play area.

• Don't bring an aggressive, dominant dog to the park. Dogs that continually challenge others, hackles and all, are never welcome.

• Make sure your dog is ready for a park. He should be well-adjusted to people and other dogs and respond to commands.

• Leave toys and treats at home. They can be a big trigger for fights.

• Pay attention to your dog. Don't hang on the cellphone, for example. You must be ready to respond in an emergency.

• Take full responsibility for your dog. That means cleaning up as well as correcting unacceptable behavior.

Dr. Patty Khuly has a veterinary practice in South Miami and blogs at www.dolittler.com. Send questions to khulyp@bellsouth.net, or Dr. Dolittler, Tropical Life, The Miami Herald, 1 Herald Plaza, Miami, FL 33132.

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