Review: Bayview Dog Park and Dog Beach in Pensacola, Fla.

No matter the city, every dog owner needs to have a stand-by dog park where a dog can run and play with other animals.

In Pensacola, that place is the Bayview Dog Park and Dog Beach. It's located at the intersection of 20th Avenue and Osceola Drive in Southeast Pensacola and is managed by the City of Pensacola.

My experiences there have been great. There has been ample parking and most dog owners follow the rules in place to keep pets -- and owners -- safe.

The park allows water access for the dogs on Bayou Texar, along with ample room on the sandy beach. There is a covered area with benches and tables, so you can bring drinks or supplies with you, although I wouldn't recommend trying to have a picnic because of all the four-legged visitors who will likely beg and steal your food!

The entrance is double-gated to keep pets secure while others are coming and going. Pets are required to have proof of rabies vaccination by law in the City of Pensacola. There are several areas to get water and a large bucket for the dogs, but it's never a bad idea to bring a dish of your own in case your dog doesn't enjoy sharing.

The water area is actually semi-protected with buoys and netting to make sure swimming pooches are safe, too. There is even a sign to alert park visitors to the bacteria level in the water so you can ensure it's safe to swim.

Another great feature of this park is the boardwalk and dog wash area. A raised boardwalk brings FIdo to hip level, making a dog wash at the end of your visit a lot less painful on the back. They don't provide dog shampoo, though, so bring your own along if you plan to bathe the dog there.

Dog waste baggies and trash cans are provided, as well, so be sure to clean up after your pet and make the park clean and fun for everyone after you!

If you bring dog toys, be prepared to share with others. I would also recommend against bringing very small children, as the dogs can be a bit rambunctious chasing one another, and a small child could easily get knocked over.

The park is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week, assuming it's still daylight. During the winter, though, it gets dark around 5 to 6 p.m.

For further information about the park or for a map, visit http://www.dogparkusa.com/florida/pensacola/bayview-dog-beach-on-bayou-texar.