Richard Rawlings, 64, of Baltimore, has many friends ? probably because he keeps dog treats in his pocket. Rawlings and his 11-year-old dog, Bear, are regular visitors at the Canton Dog Park in Baltimore, where pets can play leash-free behind the safety of a fence.

Many pet owners have come to appreciate the Canton Dog Park to socialize or exercise their dogs. But before stepping through the chain-link gate, visitors face a bold notice warning them to “enter at your own risk,” since the park does not require owners to present a pet permit in order to gain access to the area.

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