Every single day, I take my 2 dogs to Beryl Gaffney Park, where they gleefully run free, enjoy the open space, and get the exercise they desperately need as I can't afford a single family home with a yard. For many dog owners like myself, this park is a sanctuary, one of the very few places we can let our four-legged friends off-leash legally. We meet our friends and family here with their dogs as well. It's more than a routine; it's a cherished part of our day and an essential means for maintaining our and our pets’ physical and mental well-being. This park has allowed us to connect with like-minded individuals, who understand how important our pets are to us. 

However, there is a plan to convert Beryl Gaffney Park into a cricket pitch, which would mean the dogs—and their owners—would lose this valuable freedom. While we understand the importance of diverse community activities and support sports development, we believe that taking away one of the limited off-leash dog areas overlooks the needs of a substantial section of the community.

In many urban environments, designated off-leash areas are shrinking, leaving dog owners with fewer options. According to the City of Ottawa's own guidelines, parks play a crucial role in encouraging community well-being and togetherness, offering spaces for recreational and social activities, which certainly includes our canine companions.

Off-leash areas contribute significantly to a dog's health and happiness, and for owners, it means peace of mind and joy from seeing their dogs thrive in a safe and open environment. 

Please help us keep Beryl Gaffney Park a welcoming haven for our dogs. Sign the petition today to protect the park that brings joy to so many pets and their owners.