Pine-shaded subdivisions beside the canal headwaters.
- County
- Columbia County
- From downtown Augusta
- 5 mi northwest
- Main roads
- I-20, Washington Road, Old Ferry Road and Wheeler Road
- Where dogs walk
- subdivision sidewalks and Savannah Rapids Park
Martinez borders Interstate 20 on its southern edge, with exits at South Belair Road and Wheeler Road, and local landmarks include Old Ferry Road, River Watch Parkway and Baston Road. Wikipedia notes that the land sits near 361 feet in elevation, roughly 200 feet above downtown Augusta, and is flatter toward the Richmond County line and hillier farther west. Those gentle slopes make for decent leash practice: a dog who pulls uphill has to learn that tension never speeds anything up.
Trees here are mostly found in subdivisions, according to the same source, with pine, oak, sweet gum and hickory common. Falling nuts, pinecones and squirrels are constant distractions, which suits a lesson on watching you instead of the yard. Many neighborhoods have sidewalks, and a loop of the same few blocks every day works well. Repeating one route lets your dog learn where the rewards happen, and you can add a new street each week.
Savannah Rapids Park is a 33-acre park at the east end of the Evans to Locks trail, an asphalt and concrete route about six miles long that runs through Columbia County. Its address is in Martinez, near the headwaters of the Augusta Canal. It draws walkers and cyclists, so use it as a second step after sidewalk practice. Check posted rules on the day you go, since they can change with the season or the event.
The community is named for a wealthy Cuban who bought land here in 1869 and called it El Cordero Ranch, and about 20 acres of that ranch survive. For modern households, the practical issues are the usual suburban ones: barking at delivery drivers, rushing the front door and jumping on guests. Home visits are commonly estimated at about $100 to $200 each, and prices vary by trainer and market. If a neighbor's dog barks back, treat it as another chance to practice calm walking past.
General estimates only. Prices vary by trainer, dog and market.
Private Dog Lessons$75 to $150 per lesson→In-Home Dog Training$100 to $200 per lesson→Loose-Leash Walking$75 to $150 per lesson→First moves. Three practical ideas.
- Pick the one or two habits to change first, and note where in Martinez they show up.
- Ask any trainer if they work in Martinez, where sessions would be held and what the fee includes.
- Practice in short bursts near subdivision sidewalks and Savannah Rapids Park, in the cooler part of the day.
Nearby communities. Also in this guide.
Local resources. Learn more about Martinez.
How this guide works
Sourced facts. Plain limits.
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Good questions
Before you begin.
Where do people in Martinez walk their dogs?
Subdivision sidewalks are the everyday choice. For a longer outing, Savannah Rapids Park sits on the Evans to Locks trail. Follow the signs posted at the park.
Does Martinez have steep terrain?
It has gentle rises, flatter toward Richmond County and hillier westward. That is mild enough for most dogs, though puppies and seniors may tire sooner on warm days.
What problems come up most in suburban Martinez?
Door rushing, barking at passersby, jumping on visitors and pulling on neighborhood loops are typical. Consistent daily practice usually matters more than any single lesson.
Is I-20 noise a concern for dogs?
Traffic sounds can bother some noise-sensitive dogs near the interstate. Gradual exposure at a distance, with treats, helps a dog settle.