DOGS: Leashes for a reason

“Is your dog friendly?”

I can expect this question at least once whenever my dog and I are walking on any number of local trails. And the question is nearly always followed by that person’s off-leash dog approaching my leashed dog.

Everywhere we walk has signs posted that say dogs must be leashed. This doesn’t seem to matter to the dog owners who insist on allowing their dogs off leash in public areas. My interactions with these folks are oftentimes unpleasant.

Recently I was asked, “Is your dog friendly” 3-4 times by a man. Each time he asked his voice got louder and more harsh. I struggled to formulate an answer because of his demeanor. Finally I was able to mutter, “I guess we’re about to find out” as his dog approached mine.

I also suggested that he could have his dog on a leash. He didn’t like that much and told me to shut up. He then accused me of being from California (I’m not) and then trudged off in the opposite direction.

The thing is, my dog IS friendly and I love dogs. I just don’t want to have to deal with your off-leash dog. Our society has rules (leash laws, traffic laws, business laws, etc.) for a reason.

I was raised to be courteous to others; I do this in public by observing things like leash laws and picking up my dog’s poop. I’m often the brunt of hostility because I request others do the same.

Leash your dog when enjoying public spaces. It’s the courteous and right thing to do, so that EVERYONE can enjoy the outdoors.

REBECCA WHITE

Coeur d’Alene