Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport Dog Park

One of the most exclusive dog parks in America can be found in Atlanta, Georgia. It is not easy to get in. As a matter of fact, it is extremely expensive and requires a security check. Generally speaking, you have to plan your visit weeks in advance, and you have to come prepared with documentation to show that your dog is medically healthy before you can get anywhere near this dog park. 

In fact, the very existence of this dog park is something of an open secret. No one who is "in the know" will deny the park is there, but they will not advertise it, either. If you meet the stringent requirements, they will direct you to it. But you have to know about it in the first place.

So what makes this dog park so special? Well, it is not unique, in the sense of most dog parks you have ever heard of. In fact, it is smaller than many apartments. But if you ever find yourself there, you will be extremely grateful. Because as bad as it is to use an airplane bathroom, imagine having to hold it until you land and leave the airport. And that is exactly the position that Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, in Atlanta, is trying to avoid.

Hartsfield-Jackson has long had relief areas for canine passengers. If you have flown through the airport, odds are you have missed them. There is a small, windowless room on each concourse, with a concrete floor and tile walls. There is a water fountain on the floor for your dog and a sink and mirror for you. It is a nice arrangement, for what it is, which is a stop-gap measure. Hartsfield-Jackson has more pet relief areas than any other American airport. But now they have an actual dog park.

Poochie Park is tiny, less than 1,000 square feet. But it is outdoors, and it is leash-free. There is actual grass, a water fountain, biodegradable poop bags, and even a bench. This means that your dog can get some fresh air and a chance to run around, either before getting on an airplane or after a long flight. And really, who wouldn't like that? After all, dogs are people, too.

Poochie Park can be found just off the South Terminal at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. Although this dog park is small, it is nicely decorated. There's a wrought iron fence around the park and a decorative walkway around the perimeter. There is also a dog sculpture made of airplane parts in the center of the grass. The park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. for your convenience.