More Off-leash Dog Areas Needed

Sharing Public Spaces with Canine Lovers

Many people own dogs and derive a great deal of pleasure from walking them along streets and in parks. This sometimes causes problems when dogs and their owners are ill-behaved.

In Chilliwack B.C., at a popular spot for dog walkers (Island 22 Park), there has been a drastic reduction in the size of the off-leash area. Other park users, mostly equestrians and boaters, have complained about dogs running at large, barking and jumping, and, of course, about the missed poop-scoops.

People with dogs must be held accountable for such bad behaviour or else all dog owners lose the privilege of using public places. After two public meetings held at the local library, dog walkers are thinking about forming an association, partly because such groups help raise awareness about the rights and responsibilities of dog ownership.

Responsibilities of Dog Walkers

Dog leashes and collars, plastic bags and a few treats are important to have on hand when walking dogs. Constraining the bad behavior, rewarding the good, and cleaning up what happens in between are the outward signs of responsible dog ownership.

Beyond that there is courtesy and common sense. Whenever dogs become a nuisance, the owner ought to be informed of the fact in no uncertain terms. Likewise, a kind gesture towards mannerly mutts (owners, too) does much to smooth ruffled fur.

Dog Owners' Rights

Dog walkers have rights, too, but increasingly these rights crumble under public pressure. There is always one lobby group or another, such as those speaking out against permitting dogs aboard airplanes, who attempt to curtail the actions of a minority.

Strengthening the argument that society should accommodate dog walkers are the social and economic benefits of pet ownership. Some dogs are more than just companions, and bonding with animals has been proven to help relieve stress and build empathy. Dogs facilitate social connections, deter vandals and thieves, and they might even be there to help rescue you from trouble someday.

The contribution of dog owners to the community chest amounts to more than just kibble. They buy lots of pet supplies and purchase many professional services. It is important that such economic facts are considered when drafting off-leash regulations.

Common Ground in Off-leash Areas

Everyone occasionally infringes upon the rights of others -- by speeding, or washing their car during a restricted water use period, or tossing a wrapper into the gutter. It's important to live and let live, a philosophy that goes a long way toward building a strong society. So, too, does justice, the balance between the rights of the majority and those of minorities and individuals. It is never easy to strike that balance, and even harder to hold it, but it is worth trying to work together to find solutions to the problems that are both caused by, and faced by, dog walkers.

Even the interests of those who do not care for dogs are best served by designating appropriate public spaces for off-leash use: the more places there are for dog walking, the fewer problems there will be with dogs in the streets.