What: Requesting for a designated off-leash dog area at Cottonwood Park (672 Aspen St, Coquitlam, BC). Requested by pet-owners & residents of nearby community/neighbourhood.

Why: Cottonwood neighbourhood and community is growing and its park is going through new developments to improve quality of life for its residents; however, the development has shown little consideration to pet-owner residents in the neighbourhood. Pet-owners have been harassed by non-pet-owners in the area. Youths have screamed at pet-owners for using the park stating that they have first claim to usage and have utilized fireworks, dangerously nearby, to deter and intimidate the pet-owners from using the park. Adults with kids have let their kids run towards/around dogs and have complained that the dogs are dangerous around kids and that pet-owners should go elsewhere. Pet-owners occupy a corner of the park for short amount of time. They ensure it is kept clean for others to use. Harassments and complaints are not warranted and not appropriate.

How: Create a designated off-leash dog area by putting up fences around a small area. This will provide a resolution satisfactory of all parties, pet-owners and non-pet-owners alike. Or, during development of park expansion, create an off-leash dog area for the residents. This resolution will result in happier and more thriving community and saved cost from decline of complaints-handling and bylaw office usage.