Dog attacks on Newmarket trail prompt reminder pets must be leashed

The town is also exploring the possibility of designating a trail or area that permits off-leash dogs 

Newmarkettoday.ca
Feb. 3, 2021
Alan S Hale

Residents taking their pets for walks on Newmarket's trails are being reminded they must be on leashes, after reports of leashed dogs being attacked on Dave Kerwin Trail.

"Everyone wants to get out to walk more, and it's great to see people out on those trails, but one thing that a number of residents have been noticing is that there is a number of people bringing their dogs in and letting them off-leash," said Councillor Christina Bisanz at a council meeting Feb. 1.

"There were two separate incidents a couple of weeks ago where off-leash dogs attacked other dogs that were leashed and were quite aggressive toward some of the people who were walking."

While animal control bylaw has responded to the incidents, said Bisanz, the violators are often no longer on the scene.

Pet owners with friendly dogs also need to keep them on a leash because some trail users are frightened when a strange off-leash dog approaches them, Councillor Victor Woodhouse said.

Bisanz suggested more signage is needed to remind trail users to keep dogs on-leash, however, director of legislative services Lisa Lyons said there are already signs in place and the more signs there are, the less effective they become because people stop reading them.

While a public education blitz regarding the need for leashes is under consideration, the town is also exploring the possibility of opening an off-leash trail, similar to other communities.

"We're looking at whether there is an opportunity to have a designated trail or area where dogs can be off-leash. That is something that is on our radar and is being discussed," said Lyons.

Mayor John Taylor said it is becoming increasingly clear to him that Newmarket needs more facilities where people can exercise their dogs off-leash as the town continues to grow.

"People need to keep their dogs on-leash and be respectful of others, but I do think the time is probably coming soon when we need to have the conversation about more dog park facilities," he said.

"I think that is something we are going to need to grapple with as a town within the next year or two."