no dog should be restrained for its entire life. they need play time and to be out and well socialized. the more they can be free with responsible owners they better behaved they are.
There are so few areas for dogs to be off-leash in NYC. Dogs need exercise (running off-leash) to be healthy physically, and mentally. Please do not take this away from dogs & their families.
PLEASE do not take away the feel of the earth and the space to run for your city dogs. They are wired to run. By keeping them in captivity we are responsible to provide humane care. Food, Water, and what they are hardwired to do. In the lives of your canine residents a off leash city park would meet the need of exercise and socialization. I ask, please reconsider.
I love New York,
deb Stambul
As a dog trainer, I know it is important for dogs that have few opportunities to exercise, to have a place to exercise and socilze off leash. This exercise and social interaction helps prevent dogs from developing leash and barrier frustration and other bad behaviors and ultimately yields a much more well-behaved dog, both on and off leash in the public. New York will benefit greatly from a reasoned policy that considers dogs and dog-owners' needs. Respectfully, Deb Walker, K9-Behavior Company, Portland, Oregon
My dog needs off-leash time to be a healthy, happy, and sane dog. Since I can't take my dog on the subway or on a bus, I'm limited to parks within walking distance. There aren't enough dedicated dog runs, so we need off-leash hours!
