Off leash dogs at Reservoir Park

Over the past number of years, the Town has been made aware of negative interactions between off leash dogs and other Park users. Over the past months, the number of complaints has increased and we can all agree that safety is the first priority in a public park.

To help staff better understand the situation, and to support future recommendations, we need to hear from Park users.

Please read the following information and then, share your ideas and insights.

Background:

Wolfville has a dog control bylaw. This bylaw permits dogs to be off leash in Reservoir Park, but only if the dog is under voice control of their human. If they are not under voice control, they can be considered to be running at large and their human can face a fine between $100 and $1,000.

Under voice control means the dog's human has complete control of the dog's behaviour.

An off leash dog would not be under voice control if they are chasing people or bicycles, jumping on people, knocking over children, biting people or other dogs.

An off leash dog would be under voice control if it comes immediately when called, regardless of distractions, if the dog stays within hearing range, not wandering off, and if the dog responds to basic commands (no, wait, down, etc.).

Accommodations:

If you would prefer to share your ideas and insights verbally, please call 902-679-9124.