The well-loved Shepard Dog Park is a puptastic place for your furry buddy to stretch their legs and hang out with other canines! Look for this off-leash dog run at the northern end of Shepard Park, where a safe environment for doggos of all sizes awaits.

The Shepard Dog Park is divided into two fenced-in sections, allowing smaller pups to play separately from the bigger ones. Both sides consist of a wide grassy area that is ideal for zoomies and games of fetch, with a few benches for the humans to sit on. Don't get distracted chitchatting with your fellow dog parents, though—keeping an eye on Fido is a must!

You'll find drinking fountains for people and dogs, mutt mitt dispensers, and trash receptacles near the entrance. Note that there isn't much shade in the area, so you and Fido might want to drop by in the early morning or late afternoon during the summer months to avoid the harsh sun. If you visit in the winter or after a rain, bring a towel or wet wipes for cleaning your pup's paws as it gets muddy at the entrance.

Of course, it goes without saying that dog parents are expected to pick up and dispose of any mess their pooch might make. Always have a leash on your person, and only remove it once you and Fido are behind closed gates. If your pup still has some energy to spare after a romp in the dog run, go for a leashed stroll around the rest of Shepard Park, whose other features include baseball diamonds, basketball courts, and a children's playground. There are also picnic tables and shelters where you and your best friend can relax and munch on your favorite snacks.

For pawsitive, leash-free fun in the town of Normal, bring your pooch to the Shepard Dog Park!