Please include off-leash hours in areas with dog runs; some dogs are too nervous within the enclosed space to take exercise, and many runs are too small to allow larger dogs free running space.
We (and our pooches) have been enjoying (and appreciating) offleash privileges for 2 decades. Please allow us to continue this very vital activity!
Thank you in advance for your compassionate consideration!
Rina and Dori (Shiba/mutt mix)
The variety of dogs seen romping, wrestling, rolling in snow, playing catch--is intrinsic to the very nature of New York City. It's one of the things that makes New York New York.
To those concerned:
Please consider that most of the dog owners who use the parks are highly responsible and incredibly grateful to have a place where our dogs can really run free for a limited time each day. It is absolutely essential to their good health and socialization.
Any effort to maintain this wonderful resource for our animals will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Panchali Null
The NYC judicial system and the Health Dept have already recognized the overwhelming evidence in favor of off-leash hours. The Parks department now has the responsiblity of writing a fair and clear policy so that all park users will have the opportunity to use the parks for their preferred recreational activities. This is also an excellent opportunity to promote licensing and vaccination. 9-to-9 is a fair policy for the summer months when the parks are crowded through the evening; however in the winter months the parks are deserted by nightfall, so 7:00 PM would be a more reasonable time for off-leash hours to begin.
Dog owners are avid park users and great custodians of our invaluable city parks. The hundreds of dogs that use the park during off leash hours each day are also citzens of New York City, and they need the freedom to run play and enjoy the parks to be happy and healthy. I applaud your desire to formalize this vital aspect of the park system.
