The Town of Reading and Reading Town Forest Committee are proposing and supporting a bylaw amendment that targets and discriminates against the professional dog walking community as a whole, including small businesses and the residents of Reading that they service. This bylaws amendment, if approved, will restrict the number of dogs able to be walked off-leash by one individual to 2 dogs. The basis of their argument is based off of the statement that it is impossible to control 8 dogs off leash by one individual using effective voice control. The town has chosen to ignore both the proof that we have provided them with that it absolutely is possible, as well as the Reading town residents that have spoken out against this proposed bylaws amendment.

We agree that the Town Forest (nearly 300 acres) should be a place where everyone feels safe and welcomed. We are requesting that there be specific trails for professional, licensed dog walking companies, as well as designated times for these companies to utilize designated trails. We have offered to do community service in the forest, as well as wear designated clothing to alert people that we are professional companies and that our dogs are safe, trained and friendly. Unfortunately, the Reading Town Forest Committee has been unwilling to compromise, and we do not feel heard. 

This bylaw change will not only put many local, small dog walking businesses out of business. It will also directly impact the local teachers, first responders, healthcare workers, individuals with health concerns, and other residents that depend on these companies to assist in the care of their pets. Small businesses, women owned businesses and veteran owned businesses will be directly impacted by this proposed bylaws amendment - and we need your help! 

We are asking the Town of Reading to compromise with us so that we can ensure that the Reading Town Forest remains a protected, welcoming area for generations to come If this law is passed, good people with big hearts who are dedicated to helping both people and animals alike will be directly impacted. Reading does not have a dog park. The Reading Town Forest is the only location in Reading where dogs have the ability to run off-leash and expel the energy necessary to lead happy and healthy lives. Please strongly consider signing this petition to help save the dog walkers that service the Reading community, and keep the dogs of Reading happy, healthy and well exercised. We thank you for your time, thoughtful consideration, and support.