Re: 'Pets take precedence over people in parks,' Letter, March 11
To the editor:I understand that some people are afraid of dogs, but the vitriol against dogs and their owners is irrational and unfair.Dogs are a part of city life. An estimated 300,000 dogs are in Toronto households. Family dogs teach children respect and responsibility for other creatures. They improve mental and physical health, provide companionship, comfort and are widely proved curative for the ill or infirm. Dogs are good for us. What's more, the police recommend a dog as a better deterrent to break and enters than a burglar alarm system.The needs of our dogs must be reasonably accommodated, as the needs of any family member. Well socialized and exercised dogs are much less likely to be fearful or aggressive on or off leash, respond to training better and are more obedient. A backyard is not enough. Ask any trainer or animal behaviouralist.High Park is a public park mandated to serve the varied needs of the community. It must include a controlled environment and sufficient space where dogs can be dogs. At this time, the off leash area of High Park is less than eight per cent of the 408 square acre park, easily avoided by those who dislike dogs. Otherwise this canine-friendly area excludes no one. And with coyotes commonly seen in the park, some parents with small children feel the off-leash area is the safest in the park. To the poop complainers: responsible owners scoop up after their pets, no matter where they are. But one can never assume the source of a fecal dropping in High Park is from dogs. Cats, raccoons, coyotes, foxes, skunks and so on, inhabit the park, none of which carry baggies. Finally, Jane Jacobs reminded us that a healthy, lively and successful city encourages its citizens to inhabit and use its public spaces. The more people there are in the park at all hours, the safer it is for us all to enjoy and appreciate. The benefits and advantages of accommodating dogs far outweigh any disadvantages. Walking my dog in High Park daily is one of finest and sanest pleasures of life. Lyn Green