Dog Run Review: Madison Square Park
“Jemmy’s Run”
When I decided to start this blog, I resolved not write anything negative. I am afraid I have to break that promise.
I just don’t like the dog run at Madison Square Park. The run, also known as “Jemmy’s Run,” is small and smelly. I’ve seen dog poop left unattended on benches meant for humans and the run really stinks of dog pee. It always feels crowded and I have not found the people who frequent it to be among the friendliest or most self-aware dog owners. And if you’ve read my other reviews of dog runs, you know that I prefer runs without gravel surfaces. Because of the run’s proximity to Eataly and the Flatiron Building, there are tons of tourists milling about, taking pictures of the dogs in the run. (Okay. I admit that last complaint makes me sound like a cranky old New Yorker. Sorry!)
Granted, I may have been there on an off day (or two… or three… or a dozen), but compared to other dog runs I’ve been to, I feel that this one just doesn’t stack up.
What’s puzzling to me is that Jemmy’s Run is frequently cited as one of the city’s top dog parks. Last year, it was runner up in Curbed’s “Best Dog Parks in NYC” contest, and a number of news outlets have named it as one of the city’s best. (So, based on that, I am willing to concede that maybe I’ve just had isolated bad experiences there. Maybe.)
One thing I’ll readily admit that it has going for it, is its location.
Madison Square Park is lively and lovely. I really enjoy walking Bodhi through the park itself, whether we’re walking west for some reason or going to the dog run.
It’s also home to the original Shake Shack, a great place to grab a bite and sit outside with your dog. They even have special Shake Shack dog treats on the menu.
Woof! We’ll always have a special place in our hearts for your furry four-legged friend. We were born in a park, after all! Shake Shack’s dog menu is available at all Shake Shacks except stadiums, ballparks, airports and international outposts.
Pooch-ini ShackBurger dog biscuits, peanut butter sauce and vanilla custard. Includes dairy, sugar and nut products. Not intended for small dogs… just let ’em have a lick or two
Bag O’ Bones Doggie bag of 5 ShackBurger dog biscuits made just for us by NYC’s Bocce’s Bakery.
Shake Shack is currently undergoing renovations and is scheduled to re-open in mid-2015.
Jimmy’s Run is also pretty much the only game in town for dog runs in that area, which makes it convenient for folks living in the Flatiron District, NoMad, or Murray Hill.
Other pros: plenty of shade, plenty of benches for owners, water, lots of poop bags, a separate area for small dogs. (See? I am not just being negative!)
For more information about the dog run at Madison Square Park, click here.
