Increase in dog bite incidents prompts Wolfville park to limit off-leash hours

Reservoir Park in Wolfville, N.S., has been the site of several incidents involving off-leash dogs, prompting the Town of Wolfville to implement a pilot project to address the issue. The pilot project, which will run until January, restricts the hours during which dogs can be off-leash to between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Previously, there were no restrictions on off-leash hours.

The decision to implement these changes came after Wolfville Mayor Jodi MacKay received reports from an emergency room doctor about an increase in dog bites at the park. Concerned for the safety of park users, MacKay and the town sought feedback from community members before implementing the pilot project.

“We heard a lot of negative interactions with off-leash dogs,” MacKay said. The town hopes that by limiting off-leash hours, they can mitigate potential risks and create a safer environment for park visitors.

Individuals who fail to comply with the new leash rules could face fines ranging from $100 to $1,000. MacKay emphasized the importance of following the rules to ensure the well-being of all park users.

To gather feedback on the pilot project, QR codes have been placed throughout Reservoir Park for visitors to scan and share their thoughts. One park regular, David Steele, expressed support for the new rules, citing instances where excited dogs have jumped on him during his walks.

Steele, a member of a naturalist group, highlighted the potential dangers of off-leash dogs, especially for children and elderly individuals. While most interactions with pets at the park have been positive, Steele believes that enforcing leash regulations is crucial for maintaining a safe environment.

However, not all park visitors are in favor of the rule change. Doug Watling from Kentville, N.S., frequently visits Reservoir Park to let his 13-year-old dog, Hannah, off-leash. Watling expressed disappointment with the new restrictions, stating that the charm of the park came from allowing dogs to interact freely with people.

Despite differing opinions on the pilot project, the Town of Wolfville remains committed to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all park users. By implementing these changes and gathering feedback from the community, they aim to strike a balance between allowing dogs to enjoy the park while minimizing potential risks.