It is in violation of City Code (SMC 9.25.084) to not leash dogs, except in designated off-leash areas, and it can result in a $54 fine.
Here is post we did in January of this year and another in July.
And here is the reader's email we received last night:
I had a scary incident with an unleashed dog this evening around 6:00 at Laurelhurst Park. This seems to be a continuing problem with people letting their dogs off leash in Laurelhurst Park. I really don't understand why dog owners can not follow the law and keep their animals on a leash while at the park. Many times people let their dogs go free to chase balls.
This evening, while I was having a peaceful walk with my dog on her leash, a person let their dog off the leash to chase a ball, and the dog immediately ran across the grass snarling and biting at my dog. The dog was small but looked quite vicious to me. I had to try to keep my dog out of the attacking dogs jaws, while I was spinning around to fend off the attack. I have poor balance, and I could have easily fallen down. The person came over, controlled the dog, and reluctantly said they were sorry; however, my walk was ruined and my heart was racing for quite a while after the incident.
The person had a small child with them. The leash law protects walkers with and without dogs and people of all ages especially children. I also find it hard to believe how a parent could teach a child about following the law when they themselves break the law.
Luckily my dog and I were not injured, however, I would have held this person liable for any vet and doctor bills if injuring had occurred. If a person needs to exercise their dog, the off-leash park at Magnuson is very close; or they should use their own back yard. Everyone should have the right to a peaceful walk through the park. I wish I could have given this person a ticket!
2 comments:
While in PE off leash dogs are everywhere and while we are running sprints on the field, owners do little to keep their dogs away from us.
They should have a police officer stay there for a day, and the city will make a lot of $$$.
I agree with the "kid from Laurelhurst". There should be random visits to the park from a police officer. I, too, have had off leash dogs charge after my leashed dog. Not only am I afraid of an attack to my dog but to me as well and for any child that may be in the park.
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