As the Founder and President of AnimalAttraction.com, a nationwide online community for pet lovers, I am a big fan of dogs. As a big fan of dogs, I am also a big proponent of responsible pet ownership. There are many reasons a dog should always be on a leash in public, for their own safety and the safety/comfort of others. While there are only two ( I believe?) official dog parks in DC, there are many areas that are used as "unofficial" dog parks and the dogs are allowed to play off leash. While this is technically against the law, it is often times accepted if owners are responsible and take care not to intrude on non-dog owners. I regularly enjoy going to unofficial "dog parks" that are far enough removed from pedestrian traffic and self-monitored by the dog owners so that the dogs can be safely off leash.

My dog is extremely well behaved and could easily walk right next to me down city streets without a leash, but I would never, ever do that because it would be unfair to those like the originator of this post who are afraid of or uncomfortable around dogs. Also, I would never risk the possibility that, as unlikely as I think it may be, my dog got startled by something and ran out into the street or he became aggressive towards a person or other dog. It's simply not worth the risk. A well trained dog can and should enjoy a walk around the city on a leash. People who walk their dogs without a leash are doing a great disservice to responsible dog owners because they provide valid concerns for those who would like to limit the rights of dog owners in general. I agree that having more official dog parks in DC would be a great thing. Dog parks really aren't just for dogs, they are for people too. They foster a great sense of community and faciliate lasting friendships and relationships among people who may otherwise never meet. A shortage of dog parks, however, should not be used as an excuse to walk a dog off leash in the city or engage in other irresponsible behavior with one's dog.

Thanks for listening, and for being responsible pet owners.

Dan Cohen
Founder & President
AnimalAttraction.com

But don't worry, eventually the parks department
will get their heads out of their butts and
do the right thing.

Until then just lock yourself in the house
or make a friend who is not afraid of dogs.

Personnaly, I am afraid of afraid of rats and
mice and I wish th ecity would do more about
this.

Is there anyone else out there who is afraid
of anything in DC ??

WRZ

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/Dogpark-National-News/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/DCdog/