Urban Diary: Patsy Slater's 5 Best Places to Walk Your Dog in Berkeley

Patsy Slater, a volunteer at the Berkeley Animal Shelter for over 3 years, has a lot of experience walking dogs. Helping out at the shelter most every day of the week, Slater spends much of her time taking the shelter dogs out for some fresh air. She paused briefly during a stroll with one of her favorite Chihuahuas to share her thoughts on the 5 best places to walk your dog in Berkeley.

For those with young dogs, Slater recommends one of the many meandering trails in Tilden Park. Long and wooded, off-leash trails such as Old Quarry are perfectly suited to the energy and exuberance of younger pups. “Those young dogs need to stretch their legs out and run for a long time,” Slater explained. “The hilly terrain of Tilden is perfect. There are tons of good trails.”

While technically in Richmond, Point Isabel is one of Slater’s favorite off-leash destinations. “There are a lot of Berkeley dogs there, “she said, laughing. A hot spot for dog owners hoping to do a little socializing themselves, Point Isabel is situated next to the water, offering up beautiful views and long stretches of open space. People meet there, dogs in tow, chatting as they stroll and Rover runs free.

Slater loves Aquatic Park for her walks with the shelter dogs. Close by the Shelter’s 2^nd St. location, and enforcing an on-leash policy, Aquatic Park is a more controlled environment for those seeking a calmer walk. “Dogs are supposed to be leashed,” Slater insisted. “Most people follow the rule and it helps those of us who need, for whatever reason, to keep our dogs nearby to avoid confrontation and distraction.”

Next on Slater’s list is Cesar Chavez Park, a bulb of land at the Berkeley Marina. Close to the water, and encompassing over 90 acres, Cesar Chavez has a large expanse of off-leash land where dogs can romp joyously and their guardians are able to saunter behind, at a more leisurely pace, and take in the view.

Slater reluctantly recommends the enclosed neighborhood runs, such as Ohlone Dog Park, because she feels the fenced in areas present too many opportunities for dogs to get themselves in trouble. “The problem resides with the owners, not the dogs,” Slater suggested. “In the smaller, enclosed spaces, guardians often feel they can stop watching their dogs and that’s when the difficulties develop.” Bending down to scoop up her charge, Slater coos and kisses the Chihuahua lovingly before adding, “And the problems, when they arise, seem more often with the humans than the dogs!”