Spare the leash and spoil the day: Barrett

By Craig Westcott/February 17, 2023

CBS dog owners are being reminded to keep their animals on the leash when walking through public areas.

“I have been getting an increasing number of inquiries – dare I say complaints – lately about off leash dogs, largely around Chamberlains Park,” councillor-at-large Joshua Barrett told his colleagues at council last week.

The Town’s animal control regulations prohibit roaming, Barrett reminded residents, and Provincial animal health regulations are also enforced by the Town’s municipal enforcement officers.

“All of which is to say, it is clear in these policies that dogs are not permitted to be loose in public places,” said Barrett. “As a Town, we continue to do what we can to alleviate some of these ongoing issues and take proactive measures such as educating residents on our rules and regulations. But sometimes that only goes so far, and depending on the situation, we will issue a ticket to gain compliance.”

Barrett said anyone with a concern about a loose or roaming dog can call the Town’s Humane Services Division at 834-6552. “They can be reached seven days a week and will investigate the situation and act accordingly,” he said. 

“It is also worth noting, we have a dog park here within the town that I have frequented many times,” said Barrett.

The dog park has both grass and gravel surfaces and there are benchers for the owners, he pointed out. 

“There is lots of space there for everybody to enjoy,” said the councillor. “I know my puppy has enjoyed that over the years and I’m sure yours will as well. So, I feel like I say this time and time again, but yes, please go out and enjoy the trails, but please do so in a respectful way for everyone to enjoy.”

Mayor Darrin Bent said he too makes use of the dog park with his pet. “Hopefully people will take advantage of that rather than off lease in parks or on game fields that are used by children, which is prohibited as well,” he said.