We are respectfully requesting of the RDNO Chair and Board of Directors that an enhanced presence by RDNO Dog Control at the various on-leash parks in the RDNO area be maintained because of the many off-leash dogs in them and the safety concerns this represents. 

We have gathered emails from supporters and provided these in a letter to the RDNO sent on March 1, 2023. If you'd like to also let the RDNO know about your experience with off-leash dogs in leash-only areas, please email the RDNO here: info@rdno.ca and CC us at SafeDogWalkVernon@googlegroups.com  - your feedback is so important. 

In this article from Vernon Matters, included are the RDNO’s top five reasons to keep your dog on a leash: https://vernonmatters.ca/2019/10/18/bylaw-announces-new-dog-control-measures/ and it also emphasizes that keeping your dog on a leash outside of your home, property, and areas not designated as off-leash is the law.

When Commissionaires was responsible for dog control, they maintained a presence at parks like Marshall Field, Kal Tire Place, upper DND and Polson Park, and as a result, there were far fewer unleashed dogs in leashed areas. There are many beautiful off-leash parks to accommodate those owners that would like to let their pet off-leash, but in on-leash areas, dogs should remain on-leash. 

We request that RDNO Dog Control begin making appearances at the on-leash parks to educate on Bylaw #2881 and leashing dogs in on-leash areas – also for increased phone and email responsiveness. Larger, clearer and more strategically placed signs reminding dog owners that leashes are required would also be helpful. 

It is unsafe to have unleashed dogs running up to and greeting leashed dogs and we want safe spaces to walk without being harassed by unleashed dogs. Vernon is a beautiful city and as dog owners, we want to enjoy the outdoors safely with our pets and without worry.