Re “How aggressively should cities in dog-loving San Diego County enforce leash laws?” (Nov. 24): As a dog owner who has used both an off-leash dog park and local unauthorized parks, I have experienced far better behavior (both dogs and owners) in the latter setting. There are too few off-leash parks for the number of dogs, making them crowded and unsafe. I see far more dog messes left by leash dogs on my walks around my local park, whereas the off-leash owners I know are more diligent about picking up after their dogs. I would like to suggest that the city park system establish off-leash days/hours as it does at some of the beach areas. Irresponsible owners who can’t or won’t control their animals are the real problem.
The Humane Society’s time and efforts would be far better spent in teaching prospective dog owners about dog behavior and requiring training for dogs and owners before adoption.
Karen Lynn
San Carlos
In regards to the article questioning enforcement of leash laws, my first reaction is that you don’t create a law and offer enforcement and then ignore the requests for enforcement.
I believe there are well-behaved dogs who frolic in parks that are friendly and well-trained. But I have witnessed many that are a danger to dogs and humans.
I just got a new puppy and she almost got trampled by the larger off-leash dogs that were frolicking about her at Morley Field (where there is an off-leash area available).
I am not able to ascertain how another dog will treat mine and I don’t know how my new puppy will treat other dogs. So my dog will always be leashed.
If I feel threatened, or my dog feels threatened, I will dial up the enforcement number and expect those I contact to provide a warning or a citation; that’s the law.
Cuauhtemoc Kish
North Park
