I agree that pets are part of the family and should be treated with respect, but are they like kids, NO! It can be good training I guess, as far as being responsible for another living being, but trust me, not comparable at any level other than that. Don't get me wrong, I love dogs, but please don't compare dogs to young humans - way different! You're right, dog park people are a little weird (including you, I guess). My opinion is as a dog owner , and a father, that you really shouldn't have a dog if you need to take them to a park to take a shit - goes without saying for a kid.
Until recently, my sister lived in Manhattan. When I would visit I was often shocked to see people with pointers and other dogs that clearly need a lot of exercise. Nobody has a yard in the city and even if you take a dog to the park every single day, it's not enough. They need to be able to just step outside and run throughout the day. I too am a dog person and this Christopher Hitchens quote pretty well sums up why:
My opinion is as a dog owner , and a father, that you really shouldn't have a dog if you need to take them to a park to take a shit
If you don't have an appropriate yard to have a dog, you shouldn't get one. That's for sure. We've got a big fenced in yard so the "shitting" isn't why we go to the park, it is more to see them run and socialize with other dogs.“Owners of dogs will have noticed that, if you provide them with food and water and shelter and affection, they will think you are god. Whereas owners of cats are compelled to realize that, if you provide them with food and water and shelter and affection, they draw the conclusion that they are gods.”