I just came in from a walk with my dog in which we visited two of the town's off leash parks. What is supposed to be a relaxing, enjoyable excursion is growing increasingly frustrating day-by-day. I'm speaking to the fact that in the off-leash and on-leash spaces, owners are failing to pick up after their pets at a ridiculous rate.
I've lived in many cities big and small across Canada and this is by far the worst town for owners not picking up after their pets. Every time I am out with my dog, and I'm not exaggerating, I witness an owner either not following their pets in the off leash space, or failing to have a bag on them. Each time I witness this I make a point of approaching the owner and either pointing out that their dog needs picking up after or offering them a bag from my own stash. I am shocked at the number of times people do not have bags ready.
This is disgusting behaviour, the dog owners are the first to complain that there are not enough spaces to be off leash, but now they're ruining our park spaces for everyone, non-dog owners especially.
I am tired of watching this behaviour and holding others accountable for their non- action. I will definitely be avoiding all off- leash spaces when the snow melts, which is a huge shame mainly for my dog; the owners who are too lazy, cold or unprepared to pick up after their pets should avoid the parks all together.
Just because the town only paved a path on one side of the park on Highway 22, does not mean you have to stay on it.
Please have more respect for the town you live in and the other inhabitants.
Theresa P
