Furry Family Members

Coyote spotting? Know how to protect your dog.

Photo from Balboa Park Coyote spotting in 2017

Coyotes are part of the ecosystem here in San Francisco, and it's not uncommon for them to be seen traveling between larger parks, such as McLaren Park and Glen Park just to the east and northwest of Mission Terrace. This story in SFGate talks about their history and the reasons behind coyote policies in our city. Here is further information from SF's Animal Care & Control, about how what to do when you see a coyote.

Do NOT let your dog interact with a coyote.
Never turn your back on a coyote or run from a coyote.
If you encounter a coyote, shout, wave your arms, throw small rocks. The goal is to appear threatening to frighten the coyote away, not to injure it. It is unlawful to harass or injure coyotes.
Carry a cane/stick, an air horn or a whistle with you on walks to frighten a coyote away.
Never let a coyote come between you and your child or pet.

Don't panic neighbors, but do stay alert. (Additional photo & video from 2017 can be found on our News page.)

Pet Directory

Found a pet? Try NextDoor's Pet Directory to track directory to find its guardian.

Doggie Bags now at Balboa Park!

There are now dispensers with plastic bags at the doggie area at Balboa Park. If you're a dog owner/walker please feel free to use them. If you are a friend or neighbor with extra bags, please help keep the dispensers stocked. Thanks to Peter Smith who shared this good news on May 2nd.

Off-Leash Dog Play Area is Official!

In March-2018, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held to help celebrate the change. SF Recreation and Park was on hand with bags, photos were taken, and dogs celebrated with their furry friends. SF Rec & Park will be installing more benches in the park, along with a low "barrier" to demarcate the off-leash area. Thanks to everyone who helped make this a reality. For more information, click here.

Dog-Gala Celebration

After multiple years and much neighborhood support, the north-west triangle of Balboa Park, along the upper block of Havelock Street, was approved as an off-leash dog play area. (SF Recreation & Park Commissioners Mtg, July 20, 2017). On Friday, September, 2017, despite record-breaking temperatures, a number of the dog-guardians and their furry family members, gathers to celebrate this success.

Information on fences/signage/doggie-bag station, etc will be coming soon.

Responsible Dog Guardians

Prudence, Monty, & Maggie

There has been a regular crew at Balboa Park for many years, and a general rule, work together to ensure a safe and clean area for humans and canines to gather and have fun together.

Here is neighbor Prudence Hull with her dogs Monty and Maggie. She not only is a responsible dog guardian, but also cares for the park, taking time to clean the street drains along Balboa Triangle dog play area.