Remy said:
I totally agree. What’s your take on off-leash dog parks?
I’m all for the private ones, but the public ones? Not so much.
Remy said:
I totally agree. What’s your take on off-leash dog parks?
I don’t own a dog, but I don’t mind designated off-leash parks. At least it’s an area set up for that purpose, so I can avoid it if I want. It’s all about making sure the dogs are leashed until they’re inside the park.
Totally get this. My dog is also reactive. I always keep his leash short around other dogs, but sometimes others give their dogs way too much room on the leash, letting them wander close.
Also, foot traffic should stay on the left, with dogs heeling to the left too. Would be much safer if everyone followed this basic rule.
@Zed
Is this left-side rule universal? I’m from the US, so I’m used to staying to the right, but I don’t have a dog, so maybe it’s different for owners.
Dell said:
@Zed
Is this left-side rule universal? I’m from the US, so I’m used to staying to the right, but I don’t have a dog, so maybe it’s different for owners.
I’m from Australia, and I’ve been taught to stay between my dog and others, but I hadn’t heard about always keeping to the left.
You’re absolutely right about leashing dogs in public spaces. It’s a matter of respect and making sure that everyone, including other pets, can enjoy the park comfortably. Thanks for sharing this important message!
Exactly! Your dog may be friendly, but that doesn’t mean everyone else’s pets are.
Couldn’t agree more. I live in a suburban area where people let their dogs roam loose. It’s dangerous for the dogs and for everyone else! I constantly see them crossing busy roads, and it’s stressful to watch.
I now carry a stun gun for loose dogs after my leashed dog was killed by one. Just zapping it in the air is usually enough to scare them off. It’s small and legal, and I feel a bit more protected this way.
What you’re saying might sound reasonable, but public spaces vary a lot in rules. In my area, many parks allow off-leash dogs with electronic collars, while aggressive dogs aren’t allowed at all, even on leashes. Some places make it a priority to ensure parks are safe for kids who might unknowingly run up to strange dogs. Every area is different.
@Terry
Sure, kids are unpredictable, but it’s a parent’s responsibility to teach them not to approach strange animals. They may not remember at first, but that’s part of the learning process for safety.