Winnemac Park

The new apartment that I moved into last November is very close to Winnemac Park. Another prime example of just how pet friendly Chicago really is. Erin and I had been to the park with Maddie a few times, but were hesitant to introduce her to the throng of dogs there. It seemed as though every time we went, we could count at least five dogs there at any given time. All of these dogs would run around, sometimes chasing a ball or a stick, and the owners would stand around chatting. Again, with Maddie being only a little over six months old, we weren't really ready to have her run (off leash, mind you) around with a bunch of other dogs.
Well, last night we did it. Maddie had the absolute time of her life! she met a dog that I'm sure reminds her of her cousin, Stella. The dog Needless to say, Maddie was in total heaven running with the other dogs. Of course we were a little apprehensive about it and were maybe a little over cautious, but hey, we're in the middle of the park letting the dogs run free.
One of the most interesting things to us was how friendly the other dog owners were. We immediately felt part of the group. They all let their dogs play in a very calm manner... keeping an eye, calling them back if they get too far, and holding on to them when people walked by.
As time wound down we realized that Maddie had gotten pretty muddy.... her 'prone' position when she meets other dogs seems to be on her back, ha ha.
I HAVE NEW RESPECT FOR DOG GROOMERS!
After the second bath for Maddie, I can't even imagine doing it again. She seems to be afraid of the water (please don't let that continue into the summer... the Dog Beach here is way too cool!) and whines as we pour lukewarm water onto her back and shampoo the mud out! I'm sure if there were pictures taken or even a video taken, you would all have a very hearty laugh!
Today, she is getting spayed, so there will be more to come on that!
-Danny