As the days grow longer and the weather becomes more inviting, I would like to address a matter that concerns the shared spaces in our neighborhood.
Recently, there have been instances of residents using school yards as off-leash areas for their dogs. While we understand the desire for our furry friends to have a place to play and exercise, it’s essential to remember that school yards are not designated off-leash areas. These spaces are primarily intended for educational and recreational purposes for children.
It would be appreciated if residents refrain from allowing their dogs to roam off-leash in school yards. By doing so, we can ensure the safety and cleanliness of these areas for the children and teachers using this space.
Additionally, as the snow starts to melt with the appearance of grass, we are also seeing the exposure of dog feces throughout the community. One key aspect of being a responsible pet owner is picking up after them. Dog waste left unattended can not only be unpleasant but can also pose health risks to our community members. Please make it a habit to pick up after your dog and to take the waste home to dispose of it on your own premises. The City encourages flushing pet waste down the toilet, as it will be properly treated at the sewage plant. Dog owners can also place the waste in their green bin as long as it is properly wrapped in absorbent paper and placed in a sealed, leak proof bag. Failure to pick up after your dog is a by-law offence. Issues related to this can be reported by residents here.
