So is TV not dog friendly?

[Loriemoms]

I didnt mean to start so many arguments.

[tophcfa]

The answer is the Villages is mostly very dog friendly. I would guess approximately close to have of the residents are dog owners. There are some bad/lazy dog owners that give all a bad rap and a small minority of vocal dog haters that don’t represent the general population. As long as you don’t let your dog(s) do it’s business on private property, pick up after your dog, and don’t put a fake service vest on it and bring it with you places only real service dogs are allowed, you will find the Villages to be a great place for dogs.

[fdpaq0580]

TV is dog friendly as long as their owners are neighbor friendly. Keep them out of neighbors yards (no pee or poop ing). Lots of dog owners here. You will like TV.
Personally, I love dogs, but I am the cranky old guy that yells "keep off my lawn". And I mean it.
Now, come on down, bring your furry friends and enjoy.

[BrianL99]

We are moving in mid march...we have two mid size dogs who are spoiled couch potatoes. We traveled a lot with them in our RV so they are used to being walked etc. We bought a courtyard villa so they will most likely do most of thier hanging out in our yard. We are super duper conscious of picking up after them. And hate people who don't pick up after thier dogs! My question is they do love thier walks..and one of them just LOVES people..he wants everyone to pet him but he knows he has to respect others. Is walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading? We don't care for dog parks as people don't watch thier dogs..is this the only options besides our yard? Are dogs really banned from the squares? Just trying to prepare ourselves...


As Tophcfa said, at least 50% of Villagers have dogs and they're welcome most everywhere, by most people, including in the Squares.

My dog is mostly a Golden, so he believes everyone's goal in life, is to pet him. Around The Villages, he seems to be right.

I also think you'll fid a different grade of owners at the Dog Parks, than you're perhaps used to. Most everyone is always conscious of where their dog/s are and what they're doing.

[Velvet]

We are moving in mid march...we have two mid size dogs who are spoiled couch potatoes. We traveled a lot with them in our RV so they are used to being walked etc. We bought a courtyard villa so they will most likely do most of thier hanging out in our yard. We are super duper conscious of picking up after them. And hate people who don't pick up after thier dogs! My question is they do love thier walks..and one of them just LOVES people..he wants everyone to pet him but he knows he has to respect others. Is walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading? We don't care for dog parks as people don't watch thier dogs..is this the only options besides our yard? Are dogs really banned from the squares? Just trying to prepare ourselves...

I would categorize TV as very dog friendly. Nearly everyone including myself has or had dogs and we love them to death! But… the owners have to deserve it too. It is not the dog’s fault if the owner lets it on another person’s property. It is not the dog’s fault if the owner takes it inside where the dog is not allowed. You may want to check the street you are considering to live on, as to what do the other people who have dogs do? Don’t ask your sales person, guess what is in their best interest to say? If everyone lets dogs crap on their property then it’s expected that you will too. And your property is fair game.

If everyone is respectful of other people’ lawn efforts (and even a tiny lawn here costs thousands a year to maintain as we are working against the natural environment in someways to have a lawn in the first place) then find out where do they take their dogs? Do they get their dog to go on their own property first and then take it for a walk? As most of us do in my neighborhood?

We also have common areas that are more acceptable than private lawns, and we have beautiful dog parks. Not much swimming available for dogs nearby (alligators) so it if that is important to you, buy a home with a pool.

There are no walking paths near my house and most houses but there are sidewalks near by. As far as the squares go, I believe the dancing area at the square is where you don’t want your dogs. The music can be quite loud and certain times very crowded and unless you have the dogs in your lap so they are not stepped on, those times I wouldn’t take them.

On the whole, I can’t imagine where you might be more welcome than TV with your pooches.

[Bill14564]

Some people treat their dogs as if they are their children - I don't get it but let's go with it for a bit...

- If your child regularly throws trash on my yard I am not going to like it, even if you regularly come over to clean it up.
- If your child stands in your yard and screams all day I am not going to like it.
- If your child runs in front of my bicycle or golf cart while walking on the MMP I am not going to like it.
- If your child runs over to me and jumps on my I am not going to like it.
- If your child yells at the squares, jumps on me at the squares, or runs around causing a hazard I am not going to like it.

MOST dog owners in the Villages, the VAST MAJORITY of dog owners in the Villages don't allow the above to happen. MOST dogs in the Villages seem to be well behaved or at least well controlled and don't cause any problems at all. The complaints you see on this forum usually concern the small minority of dogs or owners who just can't seem to behave properly.

[GpaVader]

The only thing not mention here, so far, are natural predators. While walking your dog, don't do it near the ponds, as in just off shore. Stay to the walking paths or near them, as gators love them too. Also, depending on size, the winged variety are also out there and even in your back yard, could be taken from you. We had a friend that lost a puppy to a hawk, while it was out in the back yard playing...

[Dusty_Star]

I am a dog owner & my experience is that my neighborhood is extremely dog friendly. Many of my neighbors have dogs, most I would say. Over 50% for sure, maybe I'll count someday. Several of my neighbors have invited me to walk the dog on their yards. (I haven't done it, but I do appreciate the kindness behind their invitation).

The only place I have found dog haters is here on this forum. Maybe they are in my neighborhood, but having seen me walking my dog, they don't share their hateful views with me. Maybe they are keyboard warriors, & post things they would never say in person. I don't know.

I always walk my dog on a leash, always pick up after him & don't allow him on other people's lawns. I leave him home when I go shopping & I don't bring him to the squares as I don't think he would like the crowds or the noise. Maybe I will try it once, just to see. He is a little guy & I would hold him on my lap, & leave if he started to cry or acted as if he were uncomfortable. But basically, I think both he & I would have a better time if I left him home when I go to the squares. He gets to nap & I get to enjoy the music. :)

I hope you have all of the same good experiences I have had, & meet similar kind & friendly people.

Oh, the leash walking, picking up, etc. seems to be universal among the dog owners in my neighborhood, maybe that is why we are treated so well. I have never seen a loose dog here, & if I did, I would be sure the little rascal had escaped & I would call him to me, so that we could have a friendly, leashed walk back to his house.

[blueash]

The only thing not mention here, so far, are natural prHow Much Weight Can a Hawk Carry? (https://www.treehugger.com/how-much-weight-can-hawk-carry-4868712)edators. While walking your dog, don't do it near the ponds, as in just off shore. Stay to the walking paths or near them, as gators love them too. Also, depending on size, the winged variety are also out there and even in your back yard, could be taken from you. We had a friend that lost a puppy to a hawk, while it was out in the back yard playing...

He said he had medium sized dogs, not bunny sized dogs. A hawk can only lift about five pounds. A full sized bald eagle about 15 pounds per some sources but less than 10 per others.

Alaska which is full of bald eagles and pets has this to say about the risk of an eagle taking your dog or cat
"Eagles Don’t Eat Children or Pets" (https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=wildlifenews.view_article&articles_id=343)

[simplesimonsaid]

So there you go.
Everyone loves dogs except the folks who don't.
All dogs are lovely apart from those that are a pain.
Can't see a problem. 'So come on Down.' Seems just like any other place in the US that has dogs and owners. Enjoy your stay.
Get off my lawn!

[dewilson58]

The answer is the Villages is mostly very dog friendly. I would guess approximately close to have of the residents are dog owners. There are some bad/lazy dog owners that give all a bad rap and a small minority of vocal dog haters that don’t represent the general population. As long as you don’t let your dog(s) do it’s business on private property, pick up after your dog, and don’t put a fake service vest on it and bring it with you places only real service dogs are allowed, you will find the Villages to be a great place for dogs.


Best post.



Like other poster OPINIONS, my opinion is there is far less than 50% of Villagers have dogs.
(but that should not impact you)

[Byte1]

I love dogs(and other pets) and have had many dogs in my lifetime. I even trained them for a while, in the service. BUT, I don't appreciate or tolerate dog owners that allow their dog to use my lawn as a toilet. I spend a substantial amount of money on my landscaping. I would never/NEVER harm a dog, but I would be tempted with the owner. I had one dog owner walk her dogs up my driveway and allowed them to use my wife's flowers. I hate weeding my wife's garden but I love my wife and do NOT understand inconsiderate pet owners. Owners that should NOT own pets that they can not take care of properly.

[fdpaq0580]

So there you go.
Everyone loves dogs except the folks who don't.
All dogs are lovely apart from those that are a pain.
Can't see a problem. 'So come on Down.' Seems just like any other place in the US that has dogs and owners. Enjoy your stay.
Get off my lawn!

Spot on!

[Blueblaze]

We are moving in mid march...we have two mid size dogs who are spoiled couch potatoes. We traveled a lot with them in our RV so they are used to being walked etc. We bought a courtyard villa so they will most likely do most of thier hanging out in our yard. We are super duper conscious of picking up after them. And hate people who don't pick up after thier dogs! My question is they do love thier walks..and one of them just LOVES people..he wants everyone to pet him but he knows he has to respect others. Is walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading? We don't care for dog parks as people don't watch thier dogs..is this the only options besides our yard? Are dogs really banned from the squares? Just trying to prepare ourselves...

"Banned from the squares"? "No dogs on the walking paths"? "Crazy dog parks"?

What a load of B.S.! Who told you these things? I take my dog to the squares every time we go. I take him on a 3 mile walk every other day, on the MMT that runs down the high voltage lines next to Nancy Lopez all the way from Mulberry down to the dog park. We practice off-the-leash heal on nearly every walk. When we get to the woods surrounding the power plant, he romps off leash all the way around, socializing with all the other dogs doing the same thing. We go to the dog park every day and I can count on one pinky the number of times I have seen a serious problem there -- and that was some 40-something non-villager who thought it would be OK to bring their vicious pit bull to a dog park they had to walk a block just to get to, while they were RVing through Florida.

Whoever told you this must have a vicious un-trained, un-socialized dog that someone complained about. This is the most dog-friendly place I've ever lived!

[Topspinmo]

Best post.



Like other poster OPINIONS, my opinion is there is far less than 50% of Villagers have dogs.
(but that should not impact you)


In my neck of woods it’s about 25 to 30% and that’s on high side of guest IMO.

[Topspinmo]

We are moving in mid march...we have two mid size dogs who are spoiled couch potatoes. We traveled a lot with them in our RV so they are used to being walked etc. We bought a courtyard villa so they will most likely do most of thier hanging out in our yard. We are super duper conscious of picking up after them. And hate people who don't pick up after thier dogs! My question is they do love thier walks..and one of them just LOVES people..he wants everyone to pet him but he knows he has to respect others. Is walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading? We don't care for dog parks as people don't watch thier dogs..is this the only options besides our yard? Are dogs really banned from the squares? Just trying to prepare ourselves...

“walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading”

No. I wouldn’t let dog off leash. Or be within leash distance (short leash) to disturb traffic on path. MMP usually has lot of common area on both sides. There are few (very few) ahs out there so best keep distance unless invited.

[Loriemoms]

Thank you everyone!! This has been most helpful! So looking forward to meeting everyone

[dewilson58]

Thank you everyone!! This has been most helpful! So looking forward to meeting everyone

We are all much more enjoyable if you don't meet us.

:bigbow:

[dhdallas]

We are moving in mid march...we have two mid size dogs who are spoiled couch potatoes. We traveled a lot with them in our RV so they are used to being walked etc. We bought a courtyard villa so they will most likely do most of thier hanging out in our yard. We are super duper conscious of picking up after them. And hate people who don't pick up after thier dogs! My question is they do love thier walks..and one of them just LOVES people..he wants everyone to pet him but he knows he has to respect others. Is walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading? We don't care for dog parks as people don't watch thier dogs..is this the only options besides our yard? Are dogs really banned from the squares? Just trying to prepare ourselves...

Why do people insist on bringing their dogs everywhere? Dogs may be allowed at the squares but they shouldn't be. Why would you take a dog to a place with loud music & crowded with people? Dogs do not belong there nor do they belong at any public gathering, restaurant, grocery store or any other business. I don't care where pet owners walk their dogs whether on the MMP's, walking paths, or village streets BUT I do NOT want any dog doing his business in my yard whether the owner picks up after it or not.

[jebartle]

I use to get on my high horse and post about dog owners that walk their dog across the street to neighbors yard and leave, now, i sing a different note after i discovered a racoon and bunches of squirrels poop, sizeable too, and all poop that mysteriously disappeared the next day. Sooo my conclusion, a whole lotta poop about nothing, unless you own a dog the size of a horse!!!! Oh, btw, this is a dog friendly community for most of us.

[JMintzer]

Thank you everyone!! This has been most helpful! So looking forward to meeting everyone

Dog owner here...

Dogs are allowed on the walking paths. Just keep them on leash.

The dog parks? They seem okay, but my dog doesn't like them much. She'd rather sit in our lap than run around with the other dogs...

The squares? It's true that dogs are no allowed in the "Square Proper". That is the actual square, where the music is played. You can walk them Around the OUTSIDE of the actual square and on the side streets, they can walk as much as you/they wish...

Many of our neighbors carry dog treats when on their walks. As they approach, they ask if they can give our pup a treat. Only one neighbor has complained that out 13 lb Schoodle peed on his grass, He said it destroyed the grass. This was while his 50 lb lab was "copping a squat" right behind him... He left the pile and went inside... And his lawn look just fine (except for the land mines...)

We no longer walk on his side of the street...

As long as you're a considerate dog owner, you and your dog will love it in TV...

[Jayhawk]

The only place I have found dog haters is here on this forum. Maybe they are in my neighborhood, but having seen me walking my dog, they don't share their hateful views with me. Maybe they are keyboard warriors, & post things they would never say in person.

Nailed it.

There are 10-15 hard-core haters who feel that they have to make multiple posts every time this subject is needlessly raised. They claim to "love dogs" but can't seem to understand that a dog going on their lawn will not ruin it, especially if picked up by the owner. Heck, most of these people probably put BlackCow in their yard. Guess what that is.

Learn who the chronic complainers are and you will be fine. If they're not miserable, they are not happy.

:wave:

[BrianL99]

Best post.


Like other poster OPINIONS, my opinion is there is far less than 50% of Villagers have dogs.
(but that should not impact you)


58% of American Homeowners, supposedly have a dog.

63% of families with income over $100,000 have a dog (or 2).

Pet Ownership Statistics 2024 – Forbes Advisor (https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/pet-ownership-statistics/)


The numbers seem high, but it seems like a huge portion of Dog Owners in TV, have more than one dog.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

We are moving in mid march...we have two mid size dogs who are spoiled couch potatoes. We traveled a lot with them in our RV so they are used to being walked etc. We bought a courtyard villa so they will most likely do most of thier hanging out in our yard. We are super duper conscious of picking up after them. And hate people who don't pick up after thier dogs! My question is they do love thier walks..and one of them just LOVES people..he wants everyone to pet him but he knows he has to respect others. Is walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading? We don't care for dog parks as people don't watch thier dogs..is this the only options besides our yard? Are dogs really banned from the squares? Just trying to prepare ourselves...

My takeaway on this post:

You have already gotten a home here, and will be living here three weeks from now. And today - three weeks before you move in, is when you first decided to ask about the community's perspective of dogs?

If you really wanted to prepare yourselves, you would've asked these questions the first day you decided to even WONDER about the Villages as an option for your next move. What would've happened if you found out - three weeks before move-in day - that the only option for your two medium sized dogs was to keep them penned up in your courtyard for the rest of their lives? What kind of "preparation" would you be making?

SMH - what kind of dog-lovers would move in to a place that they believe bans their pets, and then wait til three weeks before move-in day to ask for confirmation.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

58% of American Homeowners, supposedly have a dog.

63% of families with income over $100,000 have a dog (or 2).

Pet Ownership Statistics 2024 – Forbes Advisor (https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/pet-ownership-statistics/)


The numbers seem high, but it seems like a huge portion of Dog Owners in TV, have more than one dog.

Of the 40+ houses on my street, fewer than 10 of them have dogs. One of them has three dogs. A couple of people have two dogs. And the other 6 or 7 have just one. So that's only around 25% of residents on my street.

[Jayhawk]

My takeaway on this post:

You have already gotten a home here, and will be living here three weeks from now. And today - three weeks before you move in, is when you first decided to ask about the community's perspective of dogs?

If you really wanted to prepare yourselves, you would've asked these questions the first day you decided to even WONDER about the Villages as an option for your next move. What would've happened if you found out - three weeks before move-in day - that the only option for your two medium sized dogs was to keep them penned up in your courtyard for the rest of their lives? What kind of "preparation" would you be making?

SMH - what kind of dog-lovers would move in to a place that they believe bans their pets, and then wait til three weeks before move-in day to ask for confirmation.

Wow. Just wow. Harsh welcome to new folks.

:ohdear:

[BrianL99]

My takeaway on this post:

You have already gotten a home here, and will be living here three weeks from now. And today - three weeks before you move in, is when you first decided to ask about the community's perspective of dogs?

If you really wanted to prepare yourselves, you would've asked these questions the first day you decided to even WONDER about the Villages as an option for your next move. What would've happened if you found out - three weeks before move-in day - that the only option for your two medium sized dogs was to keep them penned up in your courtyard for the rest of their lives? What kind of "preparation" would you be making?

SMH - what kind of dog-lovers would move in to a place that they believe bans their pets, and then wait til three weeks before move-in day to ask for confirmation.


Of the 40+ houses on my street, fewer than 10 of them have dogs. One of them has three dogs. A couple of people have two dogs. And the other 6 or 7 have just one. So that's only around 25% of residents on my street.

Wow. Just wow. Harsh welcome to new folks.

:ohdear:


There you go!

Harsh, but everything a dog owner should consider and Forbes magazine should know, if they want to be credible. Forbes apparently neglected to survey OBB's entire street when they did their survey.

Sounds a little self-centric, but what do I know?

[Normal]

I like to think so. Of course I can’t read minds and I’m not naive. We have a dog, and cant seem to live without one. Lawns can be damaged by female dogs or dogs on medication especially St. Augustine grass. Corner lots are frequently passed several times a day so remember to just keep them away from the lawn. A lawn in The Villages can be a great expense and often has a lot of personal work put into it. Try to be conscious that homeowners pay good money to fertilize, irrigate and cut those green patches. They run into chinch bugs and weeds that can be costly. If grass needs replaced a homeowner has to buy plugs or sod. The best practice is to just keep the dogs away from all the yards and all is great!

Pet Safety
Also when you walk your dog be careful in the summer months. It’s helpful to only walk the dog in the early hours or after dusk. The asphalt gets very warm and can burn the poor things feet. Always feel the roadway before walking when it’s hot out!

If you want the 100% answer, no. If you want the canine owner answer, maybe 80% of the time. There are caninemisos out there. They kind of stink like the land mines one sometimes encounters when owning a pet.

Good luck on your new buy!

[JMintzer]

Nailed it.

There are 10-15 hard-core haters who feel that they have to make multiple posts every time this subject is needlessly raised. They claim to "love dogs" but can't seem to understand that a dog going on their lawn will not ruin it, especially if picked up by the owner. Heck, most of these people probably put BlackCow in their yard. Guess what that is.

Learn who the chronic complainers are and you will be fine. If they're not miserable, they are not happy.

:wave:

https://66.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m85bw9fGtf1rqfhi2o1_500.gif

[JMintzer]

My takeaway on this post:

You have already gotten a home here, and will be living here three weeks from now. And today - three weeks before you move in, is when you first decided to ask about the community's perspective of dogs?

If you really wanted to prepare yourselves, you would've asked these questions the first day you decided to even WONDER about the Villages as an option for your next move. What would've happened if you found out - three weeks before move-in day - that the only option for your two medium sized dogs was to keep them penned up in your courtyard for the rest of their lives? What kind of "preparation" would you be making?

SMH - what kind of dog-lovers would move in to a place that they believe bans their pets, and then wait til three weeks before move-in day to ask for confirmation.

And people wonder why TV is losing it's reputation as "America's Friendliest Home Town"...

[JMintzer]

Of the 40+ houses on my street, fewer than 10 of them have dogs. One of them has three dogs. A couple of people have two dogs. And the other 6 or 7 have just one. So that's only around 25% of residents on my street.

Well, that's certainly true for your street...

Too bad it means nothing for the TV as a whole...

[Taltarzac725]

Doggie Doo Run Run just north of CR466 on CR101 is a ten acre private dog park that has a section for small dogs, big dogs, and a 5 acre back field. Just a moment... (https://www.bringfido.com/attraction/30671)

You might want to check it out by talking with the owners. Worth a trip there to get a look of the dog park. At some times it is not that busy.

You mark the poop and an employee usually will pick it up every hour or two. You do have to watch where you step as some customers do not see their pooches go and do not mark the poop. I often would take extra flags and mark poop I walked past.

My dog is kind of getting old so I rarely go to Doggie Doo Run Run any more but would recommend it. Some of the younger as well as the older canines can play quite hard.

I had been going to Doggie Doo Run Run almost every day from 2007 through around 2022. Two different dogs though were involved.

[CFrance]

My takeaway on this post:

You have already gotten a home here, and will be living here three weeks from now. And today - three weeks before you move in, is when you first decided to ask about the community's perspective of dogs?

If you really wanted to prepare yourselves, you would've asked these questions the first day you decided to even WONDER about the Villages as an option for your next move. What would've happened if you found out - three weeks before move-in day - that the only option for your two medium sized dogs was to keep them penned up in your courtyard for the rest of their lives? What kind of "preparation" would you be making?

SMH - what kind of dog-lovers would move in to a place that they believe bans their pets, and then wait til three weeks before move-in day to ask for confirmation.
So a person buys a house in TV and joins the forum (they did in Feb of 2024). The norm for moving to any neighborhood is bring your pets. That's the standard, unless it's a pet-free community. Why would you even think to ask about pets being welcomed. They're welcomed in the majority of communities.

After joining the forum, the new homeowner then comes across dog-hating threads of the 10-15 haters mentioned above, and starts to worry about it because he/she doesn't realize that this forum is a minute fraction of The Villages residents.

And then gets a snarky comment about not asking the community (that they weren't a part of till February) about dogs before moving here. From a person that doesn't have a dog.
Amazing.

[CFrance]

Well, that's certainly true for your street...

Too bad it means nothing for the TV as a whole...
Right. And that's not the point anyway. I counted up 11 dogs in our CYV neighborhood, a small percentage but so what. The point is the people in our neighborhood that don't have dogs are perfectly fine with us that do.

And the couple of homeowners who aren't fine with that outside our villa neighborhood are well known and greatly avoided.

I walk our dogs nearly down the middle of the street. It's my only gripe about electric vehicles--they're not loud enough to hear coming:what:

[TheWarriors]

Nailed it.

There are 10-15 hard-core haters who feel that they have to make multiple posts every time this subject is needlessly raised. They claim to "love dogs" but can't seem to understand that a dog going on their lawn will not ruin it, especially if picked up by the owner. Heck, most of these people probably put BlackCow in their yard. Guess what that is.

Learn who the chronic complainers are and you will be fine. If they're not miserable, they are not happy.

:wave:



Your dog, your property, no problem. The problem seems to be some dog owners not understanding property lines.

[Maryland04]

A lot of dog owners take their dogs to the Polo Fields and walk them around the paved drive. Very serine in the morning.

[mrrmauu]

We are moving in mid march...we have two mid size dogs who are spoiled couch potatoes. We traveled a lot with them in our RV so they are used to being walked etc. We bought a courtyard villa so they will most likely do most of thier hanging out in our yard. We are super duper conscious of picking up after them. And hate people who don't pick up after thier dogs! My question is they do love thier walks..and one of them just LOVES people..he wants everyone to pet him but he knows he has to respect others. Is walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading? We don't care for dog parks as people don't watch thier dogs..is this the only options besides our yard? Are dogs really banned from the squares? Just trying to prepare ourselves...

I’ve found The Villages to be the most dog friendly place I’ve ever experienced. We don’t have a pooch (but are huge animal lovers) and from what I’ve witnessed, this is a dog owners paradise.

[rjn5656]

People walk dogs all day in my neighborhood. And people stop all the time to talk to the owner and their dogs. You and they will enjoy it here.

[GizmoWhiskers]

We are moving in mid march...we have two mid size dogs who are spoiled couch potatoes. We traveled a lot with them in our RV so they are used to being walked etc. We bought a courtyard villa so they will most likely do most of thier hanging out in our yard. We are super duper conscious of picking up after them. And hate people who don't pick up after thier dogs! My question is they do love thier walks..and one of them just LOVES people..he wants everyone to pet him but he knows he has to respect others. Is walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading? We don't care for dog parks as people don't watch thier dogs..is this the only options besides our yard? Are dogs really banned from the squares? Just trying to prepare ourselves...
Lots of replies. T V is pet friendly. Get to know your neighbors. Mine straight up told me who is dog friendly and which houses aren't.

Dogs are not band from the squares; however, if your dogs don't like LOUD music avoid taking them to hear the bands. Truly not something most dogs WANT to attend.

Squirrel.... I find it horrible to see dogs teathered in golf carts while the owners are inside establishments. Are the owners NUTS???!!??

People move to T V and become waaaay too trusting (and pretty stupid sometimes) and leave their dogs in their carts on hot or humid days, which is typically 9 months out of the year. It is out right cruel.

I see dogs panting away while owners are sipping coffee or eating lunch inside. Makes me sick. Dogs LOVE THE RIDE not the WAIT.

Note to newcombers and travelors visiting FL it is illegal to leave pets in cars. Golf carts, it's an invitation to loose your pet. Please don't assume T V is a safe utopia for your pet to be left alone. Times, they are-a-changing!

[GaryKoca]

It is pretty hard to keep your dog from peeing on a neighbor's yard, because there are no open lots or parks in the middle of our neighborhoods. But please make sure you pick up after your dog when it poops. Nobody wants to find poop in their yard when they don't own a dog themselves. That is very annoying.

[Papa_lecki]

The Villages is probably the most Dog Friendly Comunity there is. Lots of dogs, lots of places to walk them.

[KimmieK]

Some walking paths (conservation areas) do not allow dogs, signage will advise you. Squares (especially Festivals in The Squares) and the crowds can be a bit much for dogs. About 30% in our neighborhood have dogs. Dog owners, including former, keep dog treats in their garage for those that walk by and say hello.

[dolphin]

We are moving in mid march...we have two mid size dogs who are spoiled couch potatoes. We traveled a lot with them in our RV so they are used to being walked etc. We bought a courtyard villa so they will most likely do most of thier hanging out in our yard. We are super duper conscious of picking up after them. And hate people who don't pick up after thier dogs! My question is they do love thier walks..and one of them just LOVES people..he wants everyone to pet him but he knows he has to respect others. Is walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading? We don't care for dog parks as people don't watch thier dogs..is this the only options besides our yard? Are dogs really banned from the squares? Just trying to prepare ourselves...


TOO FRIENDLY. Dogs RULE here !

[MikeN]

Dog parks here are NOT well maintained and aggressive dogs have not been banned. Our greyhound recently broke a toe running in the mud. You can not add a fence around a property so make sure you look at homes with fenced in yards to keep yours in and others out. Good luck with your search

[midiwiz]

The answer is the Villages is mostly very dog friendly. I would guess approximately close to have of the residents are dog owners. There are some bad/lazy dog owners that give all a bad rap and a small minority of vocal dog haters that don’t represent the general population. As long as you don’t let your dog(s) do it’s business on private property, pick up after your dog, and don’t put a fake service vest on it and bring it with you places only real service dogs are allowed, you will find the Villages to be a great place for dogs.

It is reasonably dog friendly, meaning that if you intend to bring them everywhere forget it. walks sure, squares ok, stores & restaurants no way.

[1009 wilder]

i dont hate dogs just the owners let dogs poop on my grass and tell me to get over it i put pepper now

[BrianL99]

Note to newcombers and travelors visiting FL it is illegal to leave pets in cars.[/I] Golf carts, it's an invitation to loose your pet. Please don't assume T V is a safe utopia for your pet to be left alone. Times, they are-a-changing!

That is not true. Florida has no law against leaving a dog in an automobile.

Florida has animal cruelty laws, like most every state in the union, but nothing special about dogs and it is not illegal to leave them in a car, unless it presents some sort of danger.

*Some* counties might have specific regulations. Sumter County specifically allows you to leave a dog in a vehicle, provide there's sufficient ventilation, etc.

http://sumtercounty-fl.elaws.us/code/coor_ch4_sec4-14

Folks should check the FACTS, before posting.

[Sherkugawa]

TV is very dog friendly. There will always be dog haters but I don’t know any. My dog thinks everyone he sees is coming to see him and have had no unpleasant experiences in the almost 2 years he’s lived here. I too don’t like dog parks. I walk my dog in the neighborhood and around a couple of local lakes (not too close to the shore because of crocs) including the multimodal paths. You do have to be careful on the mm paths as golf carts use them as well. I’ve brought my do to the squares, not often, and I see other dogs there regularly. So they are allowed in the squares. Sounds like you are great and responsible dog owners and I think you will be happy in TV!

We are moving in mid march...we have two mid size dogs who are spoiled couch potatoes. We traveled a lot with them in our RV so they are used to being walked etc. We bought a courtyard villa so they will most likely do most of thier hanging out in our yard. We are super duper conscious of picking up after them. And hate people who don't pick up after thier dogs! My question is they do love thier walks..and one of them just LOVES people..he wants everyone to pet him but he knows he has to respect others. Is walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading? We don't care for dog parks as people don't watch thier dogs..is this the only options besides our yard? Are dogs really banned from the squares? Just trying to prepare ourselves...

[Bill14564]

...
Note to newcombers and travelors visiting FL it is illegal to leave pets in cars. Golf carts, it's an invitation to loose your pet. Please don't assume T V is a safe utopia for your pet to be left alone. Times, they are-a-changing!

There may be a County ordinance but I'll bet there is no Florida Statute that makes it illegal to leave a pet in a car.

[Bill14564]

That is not true. Florida has no law against leaving a dog in an automobile.

Florida has animal cruelty laws, like most every state in the union, but nothing special about dogs and it is not illegal to leave them in car, unless it presents some sort of danger.

*Some* counties might have specific regulations. Sumter County specifically allows you to leave a dog in a vehicle, provide there's sufficient ventilation, etc.

http://sumtercounty-fl.elaws.us/code/coor_ch4_sec4-14

Folks should check the FACTS, before posting.

Thank you

[LonnyP]

Walking on the sidewalks that are raised and above traffic is good. Multimodel paths are definitely not good. The many paths that are just walking paths are good, but you might meet bicycles. There are tons of dogs here. Many people here will see your dogs would like to meet them. They will respond and ask to meet your dogs and it normally works. Town Squares not closed to them, many dogs there but keep in mind there are lots of people, other dogs, and golf carts driven mixed with cars. Can be hectic.

[Gunny2403]

Don’t understand your concerns. I walk my dog around my neighborhood twice a day. No issues, neighbors love him and stop to greet him. I’m known not by my name but as Louie’s owner. We walk along Fenney way, greet other dogs, other walkers and move to the right for bikers. No issues. I do not like the dog parks. Some dog owners do not watch them as they should and I’m not willing to risk our dog getting kennel cough or other afflictions. Don’t trust that they have their shots.

[ThirdOfFive]

I’m not a dog person but I certainly have no problem with the dogs and owners I’ve encountered here. Aside from the occasional ax-grinder you will find that most Villagers are the live-and-let-live variety. As long as Rover minds his P’s and Q’s he is welcome pretty much everywhere and very few folks will say anything. Some stores have banned dogs (Publix, a hardware store I’ve been to) from their premises except for boba ride service dogs but it isn’t uncommon at all to see dogs at Wal-Mart, Lowe’s, etc. either in a cart or on a leash. In our going-on-four-years now I’ve seen precisely ONE dog that was disruptive, and that was at some town square festival or other with the dog in question yapping at people and other dogs. Noisy and disruptive, but the dog wasn’t aggressive. He didn’t stay there long…I think someone talked to the owner about it.

Owners too seem pretty amenable to suggestions if their dog is causing a problem. A few years back a neighbor (lady across the street) was letting her dog whiz on my grass. I spoke good-naturedly to her about it and she had no problem keeping her dog off my grass. I imagine the majority of owners would be as open to something like that. Keep things civil and friendly and a lot of problems can be nipped in the bud.

On the plus side, they’re great conversation-starters.

[Nell57]

Be sure and add your pets names to your sign out front. I no longer have the health to care for a dog, but I love my neighbors dogs and recognize they are an important part of thefamily.
When you hear “No dogs allowed on this path”, that’s referencing very few paths here in TV.
The one by Lake Miona Regional Cener has that designation. But it is beside a nature preserve and there are all kinds of critters in there. So this is really for your dogs safety.
All of the other Multimodal Paths are at your discretion.

[MollyJo]

My takeaway on this post:

You have already gotten a home here, and will be living here three weeks from now. And today - three weeks before you move in, is when you first decided to ask about the community's perspective of dogs?

If you really wanted to prepare yourselves, you would've asked these questions the first day you decided to even WONDER about the Villages as an option for your next move. What would've happened if you found out - three weeks before move-in day - that the only option for your two medium sized dogs was to keep them penned up in your courtyard for the rest of their lives? What kind of "preparation" would you be making?

SMH - what kind of dog-lovers would move in to a place that they believe bans their pets, and then wait til three weeks before move-in day to ask for confirmation.
Have a wonderful, sunny day in The Friendliest Hometown…TV 🌞

[kimgarwel12@gmail.com]

I think the Villages is VERY pet friendly!! We only take our fur baby where I know she's welcome!! However, I can speak to the predator issue though, firsthand. We have a 7 lb schnoodle and I let her out on our fenced patio one afternoon and turned to come back in the house when I heard a whooshing sound. I turned around in time to see a huge hawk swooping in to grab her, talons bared. Gilly was going in the other direction, but cowered, trying to get away. Fortunately, the wingspan on this bird was wide enough that it got caught up between the side of the house and the privacy fence, so it corrected itself and flew away. Lesson learned!! Even in a fenced yard, your fur baby isn't safe!! Now, we don't let her out without one of us being with her at all times. Coyotes are all over down here and can jump the privacy fences easily. We've had a bobcat nearby as well. We even had a gator wander into our villa community, into one of the back yards......and there isn't even a pond nearby!! So, predators definitely!!! Be VERY careful!!

[Joe C.]

Good dogs are good pets. If I see them in the town square, I'll ask the owner if I can give them a dog treat and pet them. I always carry a bag of doggie treats. However, to see a dog in a restaurant or supermarket is annoying. IMHO they don't belong there. So bring your dogs ...... I'll have a treat for them.

[oldtimes]

So a person buys a house in TV and joins the forum (they did in Feb of 2024). The norm for moving to any neighborhood is bring your pets. That's the standard, unless it's a pet-free community. Why would you even think to ask about pets being welcomed. They're welcomed in the majority of communities.

After joining the forum, the new homeowner then comes across dog-hating threads of the 10-15 haters mentioned above, and starts to worry about it because he/she doesn't realize that this forum is a minute fraction of The Villages residents.

And then gets a snarky comment about not asking the community (that they weren't a part of till February) about dogs before moving here. From a person that doesn't have a dog.
Amazing.

:bigbow:

[DrHitch]

Dog walking tips for renters and snowbirds....

Up North, many areas have sidewalks. The "treelawn" or whatever you call it, gets used by dog walkers (just always pick up poop).

But there are no sidewalks in The Villages, so we forget that fact, and dogs may pee on the street edge of a neighboring yard....don't know what else to do?

[airstreamingypsy]

As Tophcfa said, at least 50% of Villagers have dogs and they're welcome most everywhere, by most people, including in the Squares.

My dog is mostly a Golden, so he believes everyone's goal in life, is to pet him. Around The Villages, he seems to be right.

My mission in life is to pet your Golden, and every other dog.

[Pennyt]

You asked about walking paths. If you are talking about the walkways for exercise that are located near some rec centers - I believe there are signs up that says "no dogs allowed" or something to that effect. These paths are narrow and don't allow room for walkers and dogs on leashes passing one another.

[airstreamingypsy]

Why do people insist on bringing their dogs everywhere? Dogs may be allowed at the squares but they shouldn't be. Why would you take a dog to a place with loud music & crowded with people? Dogs do not belong there nor do they belong at any public gathering, restaurant, grocery store or any other business. I don't care where pet owners walk their dogs whether on the MMP's, walking paths, or village streets BUT I do NOT want any dog doing his business in my yard whether the owner picks up after it or not.

Good grief, do you feel better now after that silly rant? Remember that's your opinion, I would rather be with 20 dogs, than one of you. I find dogs are much easier to get along with and much more tolerant that some people.

[sallyg]

There are a few folks who don't like dogs. You will see plenty of "dog poop" complaints on this site. Based on my experience with a well-behaved elderly dog nearly every person I walked past with him, wanted to pet him or chat.
You will likely find the same. You are allowed, but please - don't take your pups to the squares. The squares are loud, congested, have hot pavement and cannot be enjoyable for any dog.

[Velvet]

Dog walking tips for renters and snowbirds....

Up North, many areas have sidewalks. The "treelawn" or whatever you call it, gets used by dog walkers (just always pick up poop).

But there are no sidewalks in The Villages, so we forget that fact, and dogs may pee on the street edge of a neighboring yard....don't know what else to do?

As long as they are not on the grass itself … all is good. I think it is unfair to mislead snowbirds.

[ouicestmoi]

Dogs are not banned from Squares, but they are banned from indoor dining places (and some outdoor places.)

If your dogs are well-behaved and social? People who like dogs will ask to say hello and engage.

There will always be people who find something to dislike or complain about... I try to avoid the negativity.

I take my two chihuahua's to the squares and they are incredibly loving and social because they interact so much.

Pro Tip: Consider a stroller or wagon? The sidewalks are hot enough to cook on in the summer and it is terribly painful on their pads to walk on the sidewalks/asphalt.

[SHIBUMI]

Of course tv is dog friendly..............so many people think its okay to let their dog pee in your yard as long as they don't poop. Pee is just as damaging if not more but it seems to be an accepted practice, just watch the dog walkers as they wave at you while their dog is peeing in your yard. And you wave back. Signaling it is okay. The reality is, where else are they going to pee!!!!!!!!! I have yet to see a dog pee in the streets!

However, I did spot on lanai with a grass portion inside for the dog. Now, they are very considerate.



We are moving in mid march...we have two mid size dogs who are spoiled couch potatoes. We traveled a lot with them in our RV so they are used to being walked etc. We bought a courtyard villa so they will most likely do most of thier hanging out in our yard. We are super duper conscious of picking up after them. And hate people who don't pick up after thier dogs! My question is they do love thier walks..and one of them just LOVES people..he wants everyone to pet him but he knows he has to respect others. Is walking along the walking paths that big of an issue with your dog as I am reading? We don't care for dog parks as people don't watch thier dogs..is this the only options besides our yard? Are dogs really banned from the squares? Just trying to prepare ourselves...

[DonnaNi4os]

Please understand that dogs are all over TV and well behaved dogs are welcomed by most people everywhere. The exceptions are supermarkets unless they are true service dogs. That excludes emotional support animals. True service dogs are admitted everywhere by law. Unless I’ve missed something, all well behaved dogs may dine outdoors with you. When I bought my courtyard villa my realtor told me that the best way to get to know your neighbors is to get a dog. If I took a pole of people in my development, the people who know their neighbors by name are those who walk their dogs. Keep them off of people’s lawns and pick up after them…which you’ve made clear that you do…or expect disapproval. And in my opinion, that is understandable. Welcome to you and your 4-legged friends!

[SHIBUMI]

If you stay off your neighbors lawn, where is your dog going to pee! There is only a small amount of room by the post office boxes.chilout




Please understand that dogs are all over TV and well behaved dogs are welcomed by most people everywhere. The exceptions are supermarkets unless they are true service dogs. That excludes emotional support animals. True service dogs are admitted everywhere by law. Unless I’ve missed something, all well behaved dogs may dine outdoors with you. When I bought my courtyard villa my realtor told me that the best way to get to know your neighbors is to get a dog. If I took a pole of people in my development, the people who know their neighbors by name are those who walk their dogs. Keep them off of people’s lawns and pick up after them…which you’ve made clear that you do…or expect disapproval. And in my opinion, that is understandable. Welcome to you and your 4-legged friends!

[Ropnrose]

You will find that some walking paths forbid dogs. These paths are usually near a wildlife/natural area. It will be posted at the trailhead.

[Velvet]

If you stay off your neighbors lawn, where is your dog going to pee! There is only a small amount of room by the post office boxes.chilout

You better figure that out first, before you get a dog. Mine went in my yard before we went for a walk.

[HORNET]

Love Animals, don’t care much for Pet Owners

[SusanStCatherine]

Anywhere, not just TV, be aware there are people who are severely allergic to dogs or have had a traumatic experience with a dog, or for some reason do not love dogs. They do not want to pet your dog much less be near them. It does not mean they hate dogs.
I believe leashes should be six feet in length. Those that let out leashes 30ft so that the dog walks across the entire 30ft of common grass to come up to my property are rude. Also with the leash out that long, it is a safety hazard. My friend lost her thumb using one of those leashes.

[BrianL99]

Anywhere, not just TV, be aware there are people who are severely allergic to dogs or have had a traumatic experience with a dog, or for some reason do not love dogs. They do not want to pet your dog much less be near them. It does not mean they hate dogs.
I believe leashes should be six feet in length. Those that let out leashes 30ft so that the dog walks across the entire 30ft of common grass to come up to my property are rude. Also with the leash out that long, it is a safety hazard. My friend lost her thumb using one of those leashes.


I think there's a proposal on the agenda at the CDD's to adopt a maximum leash length of 22'. I think they cancelled last month's meeting for lack of business and apparently they've now got their priorities in place and scheduled a meeting to regulate the length of dog leashes.

Does anyone think the "Maximum Leash Length" law, should also apply to cats?

[srswans]

It is pretty hard to keep your dog from peeing on a neighbor's yard, because there are no open lots or parks in the middle of our neighborhoods. But please make sure you pick up after your dog when it poops. Nobody wants to find poop in their yard when they don't own a dog themselves. That is very annoying.

Keep your dog off of private property. It is not acceptable to let your dog pee or poop on private property. Picking up afterwards is not good enough.

[Taltarzac725]

I think there's a proposal on the agenda at the CDD's to adopt a maximum leash length of 22'. I think they cancelled last month's meeting for lack of business and apparently they've now got their priorities in place and scheduled a meeting to regulate the length of dog leashes.

Does anyone think the "Maximum Leash Length" law, should also apply to cats?

Only saw a cat on a leash once here in the Villages in the past 18.5 years. It quickly went all the way up the nearby tree. She, the owner, had it on a very long leash.

[DonnaNi4os]

Some people treat their dogs as if they are their children - I don't get it but let's go with it for a bit...

- If your child regularly throws trash on my yard I am not going to like it, even if you regularly come over to clean it up.
- If your child stands in your yard and screams all day I am not going to like it.
- If your child runs in front of my bicycle or golf cart while walking on the MMP I am not going to like it.
- If your child runs over to me and jumps on my I am not going to like it.
- If your child yells at the squares, jumps on me at the squares, or runs around causing a hazard I am not going to like it.

MOST dog owners in the Villages, the VAST MAJORITY of dog owners in the Villages don't allow the above to happen. MOST dogs in the Villages seem to be well behaved or at least well controlled and don't cause any problems at all. The complaints you see on this forum usually concern the small minority of dogs or owners who just can't seem to behave properly.

Many people do not understand the connection people have with their dogs, or cats for that matter. There are so many people here who have lost their spouse and live alone. Their pets are their salvation. If I am guilty of treating my dog as my child that is because she is much like my children when they lived at home. The difference is that my dog never talks back, she is grateful when I prepare her meals and she is never asks for gas money! I love my dog with all of my heart and wonder if I would have gotten through the pandemic lockdown without her. Dogs are man’s and woman’s best friend for sure. And just as with my children, I do not permit bad behavior. In return I get unconditional love. Who could ask for more?

[SHIBUMI]

Nice consideration, BUT, a dog doesn't pee just once..........he or she marks their spot everywhere...............and you must have a lot of burn marks in your lawn.....but, it is a great consideration


You better figure that out first, before you get a dog. Mine went in my yard before we went for a walk.

[Velvet]

Only saw a cat on a leash once here in the Villages in the past 18.5 years. It quickly went all the way up the nearby tree. She, the owner, had it on a very long leash.

When my grand cat lost his tail and he was with me for recovery, I bought a bunny harness and a leash. This cat is a jumper and within days he was trying to jump my 6 foot fence up north. So the leash had to be long enough to get him to accept it (that took time) and for me to carefully maneuver him (he wasn’t allowed to jump at all after surgery). Between 8 to 12 feet seemed to work. If he goes up you reel him in gently bit by bit like a heavy fish.

[Jayhawk]

When my grand cat lost his tail and he was with me for recovery, I bought a bunny harness and a leash. This cat is a jumper and within days he was trying to jump my 6 foot fence up north. So the leash had to be long enough to get him to accept it (that took time) and for me to carefully maneuver him (he wasn’t allowed to jump at all after surgery). Between 8 to 12 feet seemed to work. If he goes up you reel him in gently bit by bit like a heavy fish.

Why not limit the leash to under 6 feet and not risk harming the recovering cat? Or keep it away from the fence if you use a longer leash?

[Velvet]

[/U][/B]

Why not limit the leash to under 6 feet and not risk harming the recovering cat? Or keep it away from the fence if you use a longer leash?

He would not walk if leash was under 8 feet. He’d lie down and protest. I am not sure why. He used to be an outdoor cat previous to his surgery and roamed free in a rural setting. My house, up north, is in an urban setting. Never had a recuperating cat before but I believe that a happy cat gets better faster. So we were both learning.

[Taltarzac725]

I had a dog sitting job in Palm Harbor with two rather large dogs and the owner had them on very long leashes in contraptions like a fishing rod reel. I tried to take them out and within a few minutes they were entangled in the leashes. Nosey neighbors notified the dog owner of my progress as a dog walker and that was a quick end to that gig.

They were beautiful animals but cannot remember the breed. Maybe this one-- Saluki - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saluki).

This was a recent widow and the dogs were kind of her everything.

[PhilG]

As you have read - dogs are loved in TV. Many folks are dog starved and will go out of their way to pet them. Think the ratio of dog lovers to grumps is greater than anywhere.

[JMintzer]

Lots of replies. T V is pet friendly. Get to know your neighbors. Mine straight up told me who is dog friendly and which houses aren't.

Dogs are not band from the squares; however, if your dogs don't like LOUD music avoid taking them to hear the bands. Truly not something most dogs WANT to attend.

Squirrel.... I find it horrible to see dogs teathered in golf carts while the owners are inside establishments. Are the owners NUTS???!!??

People move to T V and become waaaay too trusting (and pretty stupid sometimes) and leave their dogs in their carts on hot or humid days, which is typically 9 months out of the year. It is out right cruel.

I see dogs panting away while owners are sipping coffee or eating lunch inside. Makes me sick. Dogs LOVE THE RIDE not the WAIT.

Note to newcombers and travelors visiting FL it is illegal to leave pets in cars. Golf carts, it's an invitation to loose your pet. Please don't assume T V is a safe utopia for your pet to be left alone. Times, they are-a-changing!

You do realize that panting for dogs is completely normal, don't you?

It's how they regulate their body temperature...

[JMintzer]

You better figure that out first, before you get a dog. Mine went in my yard before we went for a walk.

And they never ever go again during your walk...

You must have one of those mythical, magical dogs...

[Velvet]

Dogs are very trainable. Most homes have a dog or two on my street, yet none of them mark anything. I think it is how they are trained. We have one quite dominant poodle. He used to, as a young pup, attempt to lift a leg but the owner would gently pull him away. She would take him in her cart to where he could go several times a day. Now days he’s an older dog and even when he goes to his friends (the other dogs’) homes on the street, he sniffs around their grass but that is it. He is invited to many doggie play dates and shows very good manners.

[DonnaNi4os]

You do realize that panting for dogs is completely normal, don't you?

It's how they regulate their body temperature...

Exactly. It is how they sweat and regulate their temperatures. However when the temps get severely hot here and when the sun is beating down, I keep my dog (mainly black with some white) inside in the air conditioning.

[Loriemoms]

Why do people insist on bringing their dogs everywhere? Dogs may be allowed at the squares but they shouldn't be. Why would you take a dog to a place with loud music & crowded with people? Dogs do not belong there nor do they belong at any public gathering, restaurant, grocery store or any other business. I don't care where pet owners walk their dogs whether on the MMP's, walking paths, or village streets BUT I do NOT want any dog doing his business in my yard whether the owner picks up after it or not.

I guess I didn't ask it properly. I dont plan on bringing my dog to concerts or activities. I like to walk and was wondering if I should avoid the squares. Have seen some disappointing mean posts regarding dogs in the squares. So was wondering about the "rules"

[Loriemoms]

My takeaway on this post:

You have already gotten a home here, and will be living here three weeks from now. And today - three weeks before you move in, is when you first decided to ask about the community's perspective of dogs?

If you really wanted to prepare yourselves, you would've asked these questions the first day you decided to even WONDER about the Villages as an option for your next move. What would've happened if you found out - three weeks before move-in day - that the only option for your two medium sized dogs was to keep them penned up in your courtyard for the rest of their lives? What kind of "preparation" would you be making?

SMH - what kind of dog-lovers would move in to a place that they believe bans their pets, and then wait til three weeks before move-in day to ask for confirmation.

Wow I must have hit a sore spot for you! I was reading so many anti dog posts and some pretty nasty comments I simply wanted to know if this was just angry dog haters or the general culture of TV. You know posts like yours. Full of judgemental nasty accusations. You don't know me or my dogs.

[BrianL99]

I guess I didn't ask it properly. I dont plan on bringing my dog to concerts or activities. I like to walk and was wondering if I should avoid the squares. Have seen some disappointing mean posts regarding dogs in the squares. So was wondering about the "rules"

There are no specific rules for your dog in the Squares.

Common sense and the Leash Law are all you have to worry about.

If I go to one of the Squares, my dog usually goes too. What you read on this site, is a tiny but vocal minority of keyboard warriors. They're all experts on all things canine and come up with new theories all the time, on why dogs shouldn't be in the Squares. Ignore them.

[BrianL99]

Wow I must have hit a sore spot for you! I was reading so many anti dog posts and some pretty nasty comments I simply wanted to know if this was just angry dog haters or the general culture of TV. You know posts like yours. Full of judgemental nasty accusations. You don't know me or my dogs.

Being a new Poster, you may not be aware of the "Ignore" options.

Sooner or later, you'll realize that there are just some folks you just don't want to hear from.

I have a long list on "ignore" and I'm sure there's a long list who have me on ignore.

[Loriemoms]

I agree with you there...I dont believe in bringing dogs to restaurants etc. Suprised they are even allowed!

[Loriemoms]

Being a new Poster, you may not be aware of the "Ignore" options.

Sooner or later, you'll realize that there are just some folks you just don't want to hear from.

I have a long list on "ignore" and I'm sure there's a long list who have me on ignore.

Yes I am learning! 😃

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Wow I must have hit a sore spot for you! I was reading so many anti dog posts and some pretty nasty comments I simply wanted to know if this was just angry dog haters or the general culture of TV. You know posts like yours. Full of judgemental nasty accusations. You don't know me or my dogs.

Yes, it's a sore spot. I see a LOT of dog-owners around here who claim to love their fur-babies, but put them at constant risk of injury or death on a daily basis. Or stress their dogs out every time they leave the house. Or show no respect for their fellow humans by letting Fido poop on their OWN lawn, BEFORE taking them for a walk around the block. And NOT putting Fluffy in the grocery carriage at Publix - and insisting that it's their "comfort animal" and they have the "right" to bring them.

I see people putting their dogs on retractable leashes, which means the dog is -continuously- pulling against the leash with every single step. And then there's the lady who literally drags her dog, who has a limp back leg, around the town square. And I mean drags the thing. He tries to sit and she just drags him behind her.

I see people stopping to chit-chat with their friends in the middle of the summer at the town square events, when the pavement is around 140° and they just force their dogs to stand there for several minutes at a time, and then walk those pets around the streets for an hour or more, without a moment's thought to the comfort or health of their beloved pooch's paw pads.

I see people who let their happy peppy people-loving animals roam off-leash, without thinking for one second that they are putting their animal's life in danger every time someone in a golf cart comes around the corner.

I see people who should've understood what they were getting themselves into, BEFORE deciding to move to a community, instead of waiting until they've already bought the place and are heading down.

I've seen people leave their mini-poos or whatever other tiny teacup they have, tied in their carports while they're out grocery shopping, leaving the little pups as easy targets for the foxes and predatory birds that live in the neighborhood.

These people are all probably very nice, lovely people. And I'm sure they think their pets are awesome. But their behavior doesn't demonstrate love for their animal. It demonstrates selfishness, lack of consideration, lack of preparation, lack of thought for their pet.

I'm a dog lover. It's BECAUSE I love animals so much that I take issue with people who don't ask these questions until after they've already purchased their home.

[DrMack]

Yes it is dog friendly however, Publix just banned all dogs.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Yes it is dog friendly however, Publix just banned all dogs.

No it didn't. It is reinforcing its pre-existing rule of no PETS. That's not a new thing. They've never welcomed pets. But they'd been tolerating it, and "looking the other way" and refusing to do anything about it until recently.

Service animals are still welcome, as long as they are actively performing their duty as service animals. That means "four on the floor" - not in carriages or strollers or the arms of a person. It means on a short leash, not a retractable leash. It means the animal is heeling, not sniffing at products on the bottom shelf or at people.

[BrianL99]

Service animals are still welcome, as long as they are actively performing their duty as service animals. That means "four on the floor" - not in carriages or strollers or the arms of a person. It means on a short leash, not a retractable leash. It means the animal is heeling, not sniffing at products on the bottom shelf or at people.

You shouldn't just make things up. Checking on the facts before typing, is always a good idea.

There is no requirement that a Service Dog have "four on the floor", nor does Publix or anyone else, have a right to ask you anything about your service dog, other than the words "is your dog trained to provide a specific task related to a disability". The dog could be on a 50' leash or no leash ... or sitting on its hind legs in a shopping cart.

There's not even a requirement that the dog know how to "heel".

[Altavia]

New canine inspired recreation center

The Villages - Florida's Friendliest Active Adult 55+ Retirement Community (https://www.thevillages.com/whatsnew/lifestyle/saluki-recreation-design-inspiration)

Welcome to the Saluki Recreation Center, where this center’s name and design inspiration comes from the bond between Villagers and their cherished canine companions. Learn more from Devon and Tracy, who share a little about how Saluki Recreation got its name. Construction is well underway, with a planned opening this summer.

Located in The Village of Shady Brook and adjacent to The Village of Moultrie Creek, Saluki Recreation promises to be a hub of activity where residents and their guests can enjoy a variety of paw-sibilities when it comes to gathering with friends and neighbors for fun and laughter. From the family pool and exciting game room to the outdoor features like pickleball, tennis, corn toss, bocce, and shuffleboard.

[Loriemoms]

Yes, it's a sore spot. I see a LOT of dog-owners around here who claim to love their fur-babies, but put them at constant risk of injury or death on a daily basis. Or stress their dogs out every time they leave the house. Or show no respect for their fellow humans by letting Fido poop on their OWN lawn, BEFORE taking them for a walk around the block. And NOT putting Fluffy in the grocery carriage at Publix - and insisting that it's their "comfort animal" and they have the "right" to bring them.

I see people putting their dogs on retractable leashes, which means the dog is -continuously- pulling against the leash with every single step. And then there's the lady who literally drags her dog, who has a limp back leg, around the town square. And I mean drags the thing. He tries to sit and she just drags him behind her.

I see people stopping to chit-chat with their friends in the middle of the summer at the town square events, when the pavement is around 140° and they just force their dogs to stand there for several minutes at a time, and then walk those pets around the streets for an hour or more, without a moment's thought to the comfort or health of their beloved pooch's paw pads.

I see people who let their happy peppy people-loving animals roam off-leash, without thinking for one second that they are putting their animal's life in danger every time someone in a golf cart comes around the corner.

I see people who should've understood what they were getting themselves into, BEFORE deciding to move to a community, instead of waiting until they've already bought the place and are heading down.

I've seen people leave their mini-poos or whatever other tiny teacup they have, tied in their carports while they're out grocery shopping, leaving the little pups as easy targets for the foxes and predatory birds that live in the neighborhood.

These people are all probably very nice, lovely people. And I'm sure they think their pets are awesome. But their behavior doesn't demonstrate love for their animal. It demonstrates selfishness, lack of consideration, lack of preparation, lack of thought for their pet.

I'm a dog lover. It's BECAUSE I love animals so much that I take issue with people who don't ask these questions until after they've already purchased their home.

Again sorry I even asked. We spent a long time researching didn't have any previous issues but started seeing this horrible scary postings about just about anything you can think of not just dogs. What you list can be anywhere..people suck. Please again you know nothing about me and I would NEVER treat my dogs like that!

[wisbad1]

I didnt mean to start so many arguments.
It’s dog friendly, it’s owners we don’t care for, lol

[LuvNH]

I had a neighbor that I really liked, she would stop at the end of my driveway every morning for a chat. She had a snappy yapper on an extendable leash and she would let that dog run across the road in front of golf carts and people. I used to get so annoyed over it. Now she has passed, the yapper is on a farm in Tennessee and all is quiet. I miss her, but I don't miss the yapper.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I had a neighbor that I really liked, she would stop at the end of my driveway every morning for a chat. She had a snappy yapper on an extendable leash and she would let that dog run across the road in front of golf carts and people. I used to get so annoyed over it. Now she has passed, the yapper is on a farm in Tennessee and all is quiet. I miss her, but I don't miss the yapper.

Those retractable leashes are so horrible, they should be recalled and not be allowed at all. If you had a collar around your neck and had to pull AGAINST it with every single step, you'd be yapping constantly too. The leash is spring-loaded, so it is always trying to shorten, while Fido is trying to either move further away or even just maintain his distance.

Every time I see a dog on one of those leashes I feel sad for it.

[Velvet]

There seems to be two kinds of “dog lovers”. Those that love the animal for what it is, and those that love the dog for what it can do for them. I bet they feel similarly towards people.

[charlie1]

you and your dog will be welcomed if you follow the rules and are considerate of others! Get to know the rules and follow the signs if posted (example: Nature trails do not allow dogs.) Like everything else, there are a few people that feel entitled to do whatever they want, whenever they want with their pets. These people are the problem!

[Jayhawk]

There seems to be two kinds of “dog lovers”. Those that love the animal for what it is, and those that love the dog for what it can do for them. I bet they feel similarly towards people.

Only certain people.

[Jayhawk]

you and your dog will be welcomed if you follow the rules and are considerate of others! Get to know the rules and follow the signs if posted (example: Nature trails do not allow dogs.) Like everything else, there are a few people that feel entitled to do whatever they want, whenever they want with their pets. These people are the problem!



Like everything else, there are a few people that feel entitled to complain about everything, whatever they want, whenever they want with their miserable life. These people are the problem!

[Byte1]

If you stay off your neighbors lawn, where is your dog going to pee! There is only a small amount of room by the post office boxes.chilout

You don't have a lawn?

[Byte1]

Those retractable leashes are so horrible, they should be recalled and not be allowed at all. If you had a collar around your neck and had to pull AGAINST it with every single step, you'd be yapping constantly too. The leash is spring-loaded, so it is always trying to shorten, while Fido is trying to either move further away or even just maintain his distance.

Every time I see a dog on one of those leashes I feel sad for it.

You DO know that those retractable leashes have a lock on them that allows one to lock it at a specific length if one wishes? They work fine if one uses them properly.

[JMintzer]

Being a new Poster, you may not be aware of the "Ignore" options.

Sooner or later, you'll realize that there are just some folks you just don't want to hear from.

I have a long list on "ignore" and I'm sure there's a long list who have me on ignore.

I have exactly ONE person on ignore...

And that is because they physically threatened me by private message...

That said, I know there are several who have me on ignore, mainly because I call them on their BS...

[JMintzer]

I agree with you there...I dont believe in bringing dogs to restaurants etc. Suprised they are even allowed!

There are more than a few places that allow dogs on their outside patios. Just as they do in other places around the country...

[JMintzer]

Yes it is dog friendly however, Publix just banned all dogs.

Except for service dogs... Which is entirely appropriate...

[JMintzer]

Yes, it's a sore spot. I see a LOT of dog-owners around here who claim to love their fur-babies, but put them at constant risk of injury or death on a daily basis. Or stress their dogs out every time they leave the house. Or show no respect for their fellow humans by letting Fido poop on their OWN lawn, BEFORE taking them for a walk around the block. And NOT putting Fluffy in the grocery carriage at Publix - and insisting that it's their "comfort animal" and they have the "right" to bring them.

I see people putting their dogs on retractable leashes, which means the dog is -continuously- pulling against the leash with every single step. And then there's the lady who literally drags her dog, who has a limp back leg, around the town square. And I mean drags the thing. He tries to sit and she just drags him behind her.

I see people stopping to chit-chat with their friends in the middle of the summer at the town square events, when the pavement is around 140° and they just force their dogs to stand there for several minutes at a time, and then walk those pets around the streets for an hour or more, without a moment's thought to the comfort or health of their beloved pooch's paw pads.

I see people who let their happy peppy people-loving animals roam off-leash, without thinking for one second that they are putting their animal's life in danger every time someone in a golf cart comes around the corner.

I see people who should've understood what they were getting themselves into, BEFORE deciding to move to a community, instead of waiting until they've already bought the place and are heading down.

I've seen people leave their mini-poos or whatever other tiny teacup they have, tied in their carports while they're out grocery shopping, leaving the little pups as easy targets for the foxes and predatory birds that live in the neighborhood.

These people are all probably very nice, lovely people. And I'm sure they think their pets are awesome. But their behavior doesn't demonstrate love for their animal. It demonstrates selfishness, lack of consideration, lack of preparation, lack of thought for their pet.

I'm a dog lover. It's BECAUSE I love animals so much that I take issue with people who don't ask these questions until after they've already purchased their home.

Wow, you certainly see a lot...

[JMintzer]

You shouldn't just make things up. Checking on the facts before typing, is always a good idea.

There is no requirement that a Service Dog have "four on the floor", nor does Publix or anyone else, have a right to ask you anything about your service dog, other than the words "is your dog trained to provide a specific task related to a disability". The dog could be on a 50' leash or no leash ... or sitting on its hind legs in a shopping cart.

There's not even a requirement that the dog know how to "heel".

One of the "experts" you. mentioned?

[JMintzer]

Again sorry I even asked. We spent a long time researching didn't have any previous issues but started seeing this horrible scary postings about just about anything you can think of not just dogs. What you list can be anywhere..people suck. Please again you know nothing about me and I would NEVER treat my dogs like that!

Sadly, there are more than a few like that in ToTV...

You'll soon learn to ignore their nonsense...

Most people here are very friendly... Others? Not so much...

[fdpaq0580]

You shouldn't just make things up. Checking on the facts before typing, is always a good idea.

There is no requirement that a Service Dog have "four on the floor", nor does Publix or anyone else, have a right to ask you anything about your service dog, other than the words "is your dog trained to provide a specific task related to a disability". The dog could be on a 50' leash or no leash ... or sitting on its hind legs in a shopping cart.

There's not even a requirement that the dog know how to "heel".

But there should be!

[BrianL99]

You shouldn't just make things up. Checking on the facts before typing, is always a good idea.

There is no requirement that a Service Dog have "four on the floor", nor does Publix or anyone else, have a right to ask you anything about your service dog, other than the words "is your dog trained to provide a specific task related to a disability". The dog could be on a 50' leash or no leash ... or sitting on its hind legs in a shopping cart.

There's not even a requirement that the dog know how to "heel".

But there should be!

I agree.

The entire Service Dog thing has turned into a joke. I have no objection to a blind or otherwise seriously impaired person, having a legitimate Service Dog that allows them to live a reasonable life. Unfortunately, ADA compliance zealots have turned Service Animals into a cottage industry.

We have hotels and not a day goes by, we don't get into some sort of controversy, regarding a so-called "Service Dog". Unfortunately, plaintiff attorneys are making a small fortune, torturing business owners and the government is making it possible.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

You DO know that those retractable leashes have a lock on them that allows one to lock it at a specific length if one wishes? They work fine if one uses them properly.

Most people don't lock them. If they did, it wouldn't be a problem. I can count on one hand the number of people who have retractable leashes for their dogs, who let the leash out just to the length they want it for and lock it in place for the duration of their walk.

And if you're going to do that, why not just buy a regular leash at the length you need it to be? You can do a search on your search engine of choice for "retractable leash" for the opinions of dog trainers, dog groomers, emergency room employees who've had to deal with finger amputations of people who use these leashes -

it's a big enough problem that there are pages and pages and pages of documentation from a wide variety of sources.

[oldtimes]

Most people don't lock them. If they did, it wouldn't be a problem. I can count on one hand the number of people who have retractable leashes for their dogs, who let the leash out just to the length they want it for and lock it in place for the duration of their walk.

And if you're going to do that, why not just buy a regular leash at the length you need it to be? You can do a search on your search engine of choice for "retractable leash" for the opinions of dog trainers, dog groomers, emergency room employees who've had to deal with finger amputations of people who use these leashes -

it's a big enough problem that there are pages and pages and pages of documentation from a wide variety of sources.

Have you also noted in your extensive investigations that most people also use harnesses so that these leashes do not pull on the dog’s neck? It seems the retractable leashes are more dangerous to the owners than the dogs.

[oldtimes]

Wow, you certainly see a lot...

Must be one of the ladies who drive around in their golf carts with a clipboard

[BrianL99]

I see people putting their dogs on retractable leashes, which means the dog is -continuously- pulling against the leash with every single step.

Have you also noted in your extensive investigations that most people also use harnesses so that these leashes do not pull on the dog’s neck? It seems the retractable leashes are more dangerous to the owners than the dogs.


Where do you people come up with this stuff?

I have 3 "retractable leashes". I just tested all of them. The are essentially "free-wheeling". An empty teacup hooked to the end of the leash, is sufficient to extend them.

That's certainly not hurting a dogs neck. Straining on a non-retractable leash may be different story.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Where do you people come up with this stuff?

I have 3 "retractable leashes". I just tested all of them. The are essentially "free-wheeling". An empty teacup hooked to the end of the leash, is sufficient to extend them.

That's certainly not hurting a dogs neck. Straining on a non-retractable leash may be different story.

It's not about hurting a dog's neck. It's about "resistance." When a retractable leash is unlocked, the DEFAULT of the dog's mentality is to resist the pull. It puts the dog into a mental state that prepares them to get AWAY from you. If a dog is resisting the leash, then it isn't relaxed. If a leash is made such that it is impossible to relax and the dog MUST resist it, then the dog is not capable of being truly relaxed. It's on alert. It isn't panicking, it's not that kind of stress. But it is absolutely a mental and physical stressor, to be attached to something that is continuously attempting to pull the dog closer to the owner's hand on the other end of the leash.

Letting the leash out to a full 12 feet is dangerous, because if someone is zooming by in a golf cart and you don't react quickly enough, your pooch can easily end up getting run over, or jump on the golf cart (that happened to me, a neighbor's dog jumped on my cart while the owner was holding a fully-extended retractable leash).

As I said you can run a search on this stuff, it's not hidden or secret, it's not something that should be a shock to anyone, it's been known ever since these leashes first came out and confirmed time and time again.

It teaches the dog to pull on the leash. So when you have it locked, the dog will continue to try and pull on it because that's what you've trained it to do. That's not a healthy way for a dog to behave when you're taking a dog for a walk.

[Byte1]

It's not about hurting a dog's neck. It's about "resistance." When a retractable leash is unlocked, the DEFAULT of the dog's mentality is to resist the pull. It puts the dog into a mental state that prepares them to get AWAY from you. If a dog is resisting the leash, then it isn't relaxed. If a leash is made such that it is impossible to relax and the dog MUST resist it, then the dog is not capable of being truly relaxed. It's on alert. It isn't panicking, it's not that kind of stress. But it is absolutely a mental and physical stressor, to be attached to something that is continuously attempting to pull the dog closer to the owner's hand on the other end of the leash.

Letting the leash out to a full 12 feet is dangerous, because if someone is zooming by in a golf cart and you don't react quickly enough, your pooch can easily end up getting run over, or jump on the golf cart (that happened to me, a neighbor's dog jumped on my cart while the owner was holding a fully-extended retractable leash).

As I said you can run a search on this stuff, it's not hidden or secret, it's not something that should be a shock to anyone, it's been known ever since these leashes first came out and confirmed time and time again.

It teaches the dog to pull on the leash. So when you have it locked, the dog will continue to try and pull on it because that's what you've trained it to do. That's not a healthy way for a dog to behave when you're taking a dog for a walk.

A properly trained dog does NOT pull on the leash. That is the first discipline taught in dog training. AND a properly trained dog is a confident and happy dog, willing to please it's owner. It's obvious that folks will shell out large amounts of money to purchase a dog, but are not willing to learn an iota about the proper care of a pet.

[Velvet]

A properly trained dog does NOT pull on the leash. That is the first discipline taught in dog training. AND a properly trained dog is a confident and happy dog, willing to please it's owner. It's obvious that folks will shell out large amounts of money to purchase a dog, but are not willing to learn an iota about the proper care of a pet.

Exactly, I notice that there are many situations where the dog leads the owner, makes decisions for the owner, basically “trains” the owner. Sometimes I can see why. My corner neighbor lost her husband of 50 years. She was lonely (for him) and got a small poodle mix to fill the void. She had never had a dog before so they learned together, as girlfriends.

[Topspinmo]

Wow. Just wow. Harsh welcome to new folks.

:ohdear:

Harsh, but to the point.

[1009 wilder]

i hate dogs that pee and poop on my grass

[Topspinmo]

A properly trained dog does NOT pull on the leash. That is the first discipline taught in dog training. AND a properly trained dog is a confident and happy dog, willing to please it's owner. It's obvious that folks will shell out large amounts of money to purchase a dog, but are not willing to learn an iota about the proper care of a pet.

Few dogs are rescued with issues and you don’t always get the prefect trainable dog. I thank people who save these dogs from kennel kill. Most all my dogs were rescued from non profit looking to save the breeds.

[Topspinmo]

Nailed it.

There are 10-15 hard-core haters who feel that they have to make multiple posts every time this subject is needlessly raised. They claim to "love dogs" but can't seem to understand that a dog going on their lawn will not ruin it, especially if picked up by the owner. Heck, most of these people probably put BlackCow in their yard. Guess what that is.

Learn who the chronic complainers are and you will be fine. If they're not miserable, they are not happy.

:wave:

Hate is such an amazing feeling, it builds up till something has to explode. :ohdear

[fdpaq0580]

i hate dogs that pee and poop on my grass

I don't! But I hate dog owners who let their dog pee and poo on my grass.