Our beloved dog, Ella, escaped through a gap in the south east entrance gate of the leash-free park at Shell Park after spotting and chasing a fox. She was missing for four days, out in the cold and rain, and was eventually found 6 km away after likely crossing major coyote territory. Thankfully, she survived, but what our family went through was unbearable. We didn't sleep for three days straight while covering an 8 km radius on foot searching for her.

The fence at the Shell Park off-leash dog area in Oakville has been a cause of concern for many who frequent the park. Several park-goers have reported the issue to the city authorities, but unfortunately, no action has been taken to secure the safety of our pets. Dogs like Ella are at risk every day, and this neglect could lead to further incidents if not addressed.

Proper maintenance of public parks is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of all who use them. This includes securing fences, which are crucial in off-leash environments. The south gate fence must be repaired immediately to prevent any future escapes and potential tragedies.

Mayor Rob Burton and the City of Oakville need to prioritize the safety of our community's pets and visitors by taking swift action. Repairing the fence would demonstrate the city's commitment to maintaining safe recreational spaces and responding to the concerns of its residents.

We urge the City of Oakville to take immediate action to fix the faulty fence at the Shell Park dog park. Let us come together as a community to prevent any further distress and danger to our beloved pets.

Please sign this petition to advocate for the safety and well-being of our dogs. Together, we can make a difference.