Formerly a Staten Island Resident. Now I live in Florida where there are lots of leash free parks and beaches. This is one of the things I looked at when relocating.
This socialization for dogs is an important part of creating and maintaining canine good citizens, giving dogs experience getting along with other dogs and people. Plus, of course, it is essential for the health of the dogs that they can run free and get exercise. For small dogs, this is ot always possible in dog runs, where the concentration of large dogs is too intimidating.
Responsible dog owners need set hours in which their licensed, vaccinated and trained dogs can be properly exercised----which in many cases can only take place while a dog is off leash. The presence of dog owners and dogs also makes the parks safer.
off leash is essential for the proper exercise and socialization needed for our canine companions..this interaction between dogs creates better dog behavior which leads to less aggressive un-socialized dog behavior..it is imperitave that we have access (as dog owners) to areas in our city that allow us to socialize and exercise our pets, these off leash areas give us that opportunity to do so, we need to have some more fenced in areas so those who do not want to be near dogs can have the option of doing so...we need to find a fair compromise for the dog owners and non-dog owners so we can all share our parks safely..
Dogs need places to run to keep them healthy and safe and the people around them healthy and safe. If this action by Queens is successful, New York may as well ban dogs from its city limits, as life will no longer be humane for them.
"Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased
at the price of leashes? Forbid it, Almighty Commissioner!
I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give my dog liberty, or we will move to the New Jersey!"
Off-leash hours at Prospect Park have been beneficial to both my dog and myself. She gets to stretch her legs and socialize. And I have met an amazing group of friendly, community-minded, dog-owning people who have welcomed me to the neighborhood.
