Safety and introducing your dog to the run is one of the biggest concerns for you as well as the community. The dog run is not for every dog. We suggest you try bringing your dog to the run on one of the off-peak hours to see if he or she socializes well with other dogs.

Peak hours at the run tend to be:
      Mornings - before 9am
      After work - 5-7pm
      Weekends (especially in the summer)

These are some of the most difficult and overcrowded times at the run.

Your dog must be off leash in order to enter the run. Leashed dogs create a tremendous amount of fear for the leashed animal which in turn drives the other dogs nuts. Same with dogs who are picked up in their owners' arms.

First Run encourages only neutered and spayed pets. Unneutered dogs are more aggressive and provoke aggression in other dogs. If you do chose to bring an unneutered dog into the run, please be aware that it could spark issues with other dogs. If your dog is sparking trouble at the gate, please don't come in. Responsible pet owners also spay or neuter their animals because of the pet overpopulation problem; New York City euthanizes roughly 100 dogs and cats every day.

We don't allow spike or pinch collars because they can injure other dogs.

We DO NOT ALLOW ANY TOYS in the run because we have found that toys cause dangerous fights. We find that in a dog run setting dogs will fight over any possession, even one particular stick out of millions.

We have a mailbox for storing extra newspaper to pick up poop.

We have an occassional newsletter, The Scoop.

We occasionally organize dog-training seminars and other dog related events.

We also plant and maintain the surrounding gardens.

We even have the occassional fundraiser.

If you're new to the area, please be aware that dogs are often stolen when they are left on the sidewalks alone. Many stores and bars let them in. Just don't leave your dog tied up alone.

There is a core group of regulars (and dog-walkers) who you'll find if you come to the run at the same time each day. Introduce yourself and get know these people and their dogs. They are your best source of information about the run and how to prevent trouble and spot aggression.

Expect your dog to make friends, join a pack and look forward to coming to the run to see his/her buddies.

The run has an evolving structure. There is no board as such -- we operate by the rough consensus and effort of our hardworking volunteers. Carol (Jolly) and Gunnar (Elsa) are co-managers of the big run. Heather (Neo) manages the small dog run. These are the people to approach with any questions or concerns. We are part of the East Village Parks Conservancy, which is a private organization that oversees the park itself.

greenspace map • about us • calendar • programs • join us
newsletters • contact us • site map • home