OVMA Handbooks
Issue link: https://publications.ovma.org/i/1284509
OVMA 420 Bronte Street South, Suite 205, Milton, Ontario L9T 0H9 T. 905.875.0756 or 1.800.670.1702 (toll-free) F. 905.875.0958 or 1.877.482.5941 (toll-free) info@ovma.org www.ovma.org 13 Off-Leash Dog Parks P o sitio n Statem ent – OVM A OVMA supports retaining existing and creating new off-leash community dog parks when such parks are developed and utilized appropriately and responsibly. Off-leash parks offer dogs (and their owners) the opportunity to engage in activities that improve their overall health and well- being through exercise and socialization. Characteristics of appropriate and responsible off-leash dog parks include, but are not limited to: • The area is specifically designated for off-leash dogs and suitable measures (e.g. the installation of adequate fencing) have been taken to protect others that may be in the area. • The park provides dogs with enough room to run freely. • The park is regularly inspected to ensure that there are no potential hazards (e.g. broken glass, kill-traps, etc.) to the dogs' health and well-being. • The park provides appropriate waste receptacles. • Appropriate rules governing the use of the park have been adopted and are clearly indicated on park signage. At a minimum, park rules should include: o A warning to all owners that they are responsible for their dog(s) and are required to understand that there are risks of disease and injury involved with leash-free parks. o Requiring park users to monitor their dog's activities and ensure that their dogs are not left unattended at any time. o Requiring that all dogs using the park have a valid rabies vaccination certificate and recommending owners discuss prevention of infectious disease and parasite control with their veterinarian. o Requiring park users to remove any solid waste deposited by their dog(s). o Requiring owners who know their dog to be aggressive to refrain from taking their dog into the park. (February 5, 2014 Board)