🐾 A Day at Dan Mahoney Reserve: Sydney’s Hidden Gem for Dogs & Families

Date: October 29, 2023
Weather: ☀️ Sunny and perfect for a park day

Finding a park that delights both our furry friends and the entire family can be a challenge. While we often frequent Newington Park and North Strathfield Off-Leash Park, we recently discovered a new favorite: Dan Mahoney Reserve in North Parramatta.

📍 Discovering Dan Mahoney Reserve75 Gladstone St, North Parramatta NSW 2151

Located on Gladstone Street in North Parramatta, Dan Mahoney Reserve is a sprawling 3.3-hectare off-leash dog park, open 24/7. The park boasts:

  • Fully fenced areas ensuring safety for off-leash play
  • Shaded grassy expanses perfect for relaxation
  • Drinking stations to keep pups hydrated
  • Ample street parking and clean public restrooms
  • Adjacent facilities including a children’s playground, picnic tables, and sports fields

🐶 Zero’s Adventure

Upon arrival, we were amazed by the park’s vastness. Zero, our energetic French Bulldog, reveled in the open space, sprinting with joy. The secure fencing gave us peace of mind, allowing him to explore freely.

Here’s a glimpse of the park’s scale (this video captures just a portion of it):

Beyond the dog park, the reserve offers:

  • Open fields for rugby, soccer, and basketball
  • Cycling tracks and walking paths
  • Children’s playgrounds with modern equipment

It’s a haven where dogs and kids can play side by side.

📸 Zoomies break! Quick pit stop to say hi to Mom and Dad 💙

&

Still one of my all-time favorite photos of Zero 💙

Isn’t this last 2 shot just the cutest? 💙💛💙💛
If I had to pick just one favorite photo of him, this would definitely be up there.
At the time, I remember thinking he looked pretty big for a 5-month-old…
But looking back now, he was still such a tiny baby 👶🏻🍼


🌿 Snacks, Slides & Sniffs – All in One Spot

We set up near the dog park benches, enjoying kimbap from our favourite place in Lidcombe, paired with some refreshing drinks. The simple meal, combined with the serene environment, made for a delightful afternoon.

Nearby, we spotted a charming café with outdoor seating, welcoming to dogs. While we only stopped for coffee, their brunch menu looked enticing. It’s heartening to see such pet-friendly establishments around.

The day was made even more special by the blooming jacarandas, painting the park in hues of purple. We captured some of our favorite photos of Zero amidst the blossoms.

🧳 Tips for Visiting Dan Mahoney Reserve

Zero tends to be enthusiastic during walks, often pulling ahead. We transitioned to the Pawezy EasyFit No-Pull Harness, and the difference has been remarkable. (Photo credit: Pawezy official website)

Key Features:

  • Front D-ring: Redirects pulling, promoting better walking behavior.
  • Magnetic Buckle: Simplifies putting on and removing the harness.
  • Adjustable Straps: Ensures a snug fit for various dog sizes.
  • Reflective Material: Enhances visibility during evening walks.
  • Custom Name Patch: Adds a personal touch and aids in social interactions.

Since using this harness, our walks have become more enjoyable, and Zero seems more comfortable and responsive.

Some users have reported that when the leash is attached to the front D-ring, it may occasionally get caught around the dog’s legs during walks. To prevent this, it’s recommended to adjust the leash length appropriately and keep a close eye on your dog while walking.


🌳🌲

Dan Mahoney Reserve has quickly become a cherished spot for our family. Its blend of open spaces, facilities, and pet-friendly amenities makes it a standout destination in Sydney.

If you’re in the area, we wholeheartedly recommend a visit. Whether you’re looking for a place for your dog to run freely or a serene spot for a family picnic, this reserve has it all.


Dog park

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