New York Trails and Preserves Are Begging Visitors to Do This

The subject I'm writing about will no doubt bring on some strong opinions. It's about keeping dogs on a leash in certain circumstances.

Now, I understand that many dog owners who live in the country, let their dogs roam free outside their homes and property. I get it. Lots of space and maybe trained well to stay away from any roads. That's not going to change.

But this article is more for those who let their dogs loose in a more urban setting. Just this week, when I was in the City of Elmira, two beautiful German Shepherds not on leash, started to run across the street in front of me.

One stopped before crossing the street, but the other darted out right in front of me. I barely had time to slam on the brakes to avoid hitting the dog. No owner(s) were anywhere to be seen.

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Last week, while at camp, a weekender broke the rules about keeping their dogs on a leash, and when my wife and my small Whippet passed by, two dogs started coming toward us.

My wife yelled to the dogs to back off, which they did, but I've been in that situation enough to know that sometimes the result could be a nasty dog fight.

While we are on that subject if you are walking your dog in an area that may be a preserve, park, trail, or wooded area that is frequented by large wild animals, having your dog on a leash is in the best interest not only for your dog but for the wild animals that roam freely through the area. Some of these parks, preserves, etc., lands require it.

A post on social media from a preserve in Upstate New York recently commented on just that subject, noting their roles in leashing dogs. Several people were allowing their dogs to run loose through the preserve. Of course, the dog owners were rude to the preserve officials when confronted.

I realize that people will do whatever they believe is best as far as leasing their dogs. My take on it is to protect your dog as best you can, and don't let them roam free where danger is present. Let them run free in your fenced-in backyard, or maybe a dog park. Let's keep our dogs safe from harm.

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