The leash law in Saint Augustine, and St Johns County as a whole is ludicrous. Pet owners should be able to allow their dogs on the beach leash free to enjoy the beach as we do. We should be able to run our dogs in the sand playing fetch, swimming in the water, socializing with other dogs, etc.

The leash law should only be in effect from 10am-6pm the hours where most of the tourists and locals will be expecting a peaceful experience. During off hours owners should be able to enjoy some quality beach time with their pets. This allows those that enjoy leashing their animals a large window to do so, and allows those that do not enjoy the company of dogs the environment they want.

It would be ideal to dedicate a portion of the beach as a "dog beach" where anytime the dogs will be permitted to be off of leash. St Augustine is one of the only coastal cities that fails to allow pet owners to utilize the beach fully. This would allow those that love their animals a place to go anytime, and fully utilize the beaches we choose to live near.

As St Augustine residents who keep this city thriving we ask that you take this into serious consideration, and allow us to enjoy our beaches with our pets.