(PRESS RELEASE) National Dog Park Association Embraces Unity and Sets New Standards The National Dog Park Association (NDPA) officially launched in January 2025, with a mission to unify all dog parks, dog spaces, and dog-friendly areas across the United States. Within its first month, the NDPA has already made significant strides towards this goal.
Determining the exact number of dog parks in the United States varies based on available data. Estimates suggest there are around 5,700 public dog parks, while private dog parks could number approximately 20,000. Additionally, there are about 200,000 pet-friendly hotels and other stops that provide spaces for pets.
The NDPA has identified three core goals for dog parks and spaces to achieve NDPA certification: safety, cleanliness, and maintenance. According to the NDPA website (www.NationalDogPark.org), “all dog parks and spaces can meet these goals.” This certification is not an enforceable inspection but rather a pledge by park management to commit to these standards and ensure a positive experience for park users.
The NDPA Certification Program also encourages park users to participate in maintaining these standards through the “If You See Something, Say Something” initiative, which urges users to report any concerns to park management. Certifications are valid for the calendar year, with a recommendation for more frequent checks.
The National Dog Park Association is part of the Pet Endowment Trust (PET), a 501(c)(3) animal welfare non-profit organization. PET’s primary mission is to remind pet owners to make plans for their pets in case of unexpected events. The NDPA offices are located in Silsbee, Texas.
