Editor: New rules for dog handlers at leash-free dog parks are being considered that would limit the number of dogs a handler can bring to three. Three is the number. The new rules also include prohibiting people from bringing a dog in heat to those parks as well, and also not to leave a dog unattended.
Photo by Jennifer Wilbur.
If passed, these rules would affect dogs and their lovers at Dog Beach and Dusty Rhodes Dog Park. The new regs were unanimously passed by the San Diego Park and Rec Board, but still have to go to a full Council committee, and then to the Council itself before becoming law.
Here is the Union-Tribune article:
San Diego moving to crack down on off-leash parks
By Christopher Cadelago / Union-Tribune / July 15, 2010
SAN DIEGO — Life could soon become more bridled for dog walker Karen Knapp, after a parks board approved limiting the number of dogs allowed to handlers in off-leash areas.
The Park and Recreation Board voted unanimously Thursday to cap at three the number of dogs allowed to meander under the supervision of a caretaker. Current rules require only that dogs be under voice control. The recommendation must still go to a San Diego City Council committee and then the full council.
“In some ways I understand it,” said Knapp, whose jaunts to Nate’s Point in Balboa Park and Dog Beach have become routine. “But it’s tough to say this isn’t a case of a few bad apples spoiling the batch.”
For the remainder of this article, please go here.
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Does anyone remember that dogs were once required to wear muzzles when in public in San Diego County?
I don’t either, but a friend told me that, once upon a time, it was true. She lived in Chula Vista then.
I know a responsible dog owner from Santee/San Diego who puts a soft muzzle on her toy dog when they walk in Balboa Park because he is snappy. She has done her best to socialize him, but no go.
Personally, I think all canines over 6 months old should be spayed or neutered if they go to dog parks. Saves a lot of nasty incidents.
Never mind the mean comments. I know it is an unpopular opinion, but I don’t hide behind an alias and respectful discussion is welcome.