It's quite easy for dog owners to overlook the impact an off-leash dog can have on children, adults, other animals - including well-behaved dogs and their law-abiding owners - but the consequences can be disastrous. Off-leash dogs have been known to get caught in dangerous situations; hit by vehicles, fall through ice, tangle in barbwire fences, and fight with wildlife.
Some people are fearful of dogs. A loose dog may throw a person off balance. A loose dog can create havoc for walkers, joggers, and those negotiating strollers, bikes, and scooters. These situations make it difficult to move quickly to block or avoid loose dogs from approaching. A resident shared that "even friendly dogs get tired, could be in pain, rehabbing from injury, or are simply not feeling up to meeting another dog."
A couple of notes:
- The only public place permissible to have your dog off-leash is Erie’s dog park, The Boneyard.
- When dogs are taken off their owner’s property, they must be in control by a person and restrained by a substantial leash, 15 feet or less in length.
- The goal is to keep our furry friends and residents as safe as possible while enjoying the trails, parks, and open space.
Did You Know?
Dogs owned by residents in the Town of Erie must be licensed each calendar year. Every dog owner over six months of age shall have the animal licensed within 30 days after it is brought into the Town. Dog License Applications are available online or at the Erie Police Department. Contact 303-926-2800 for more information on dog licenses.
Put plainly,it's respectful to others to keep your dog on a leash; it’s also the law.
For more information, contact Animal Control at 303-441-4444.