I would like to just post a reminder to those in the neighborhood who own dogs. Please remember that there is a leash law in this city and it is unlawful to let your dogs run loose.

Today I was out walking my 2 small dogs and came across a large breed dog that was running loose. While yes, its owner was in sight, the dog ran up to me and my dogs.  I asked the owner to call his dog, and his response was "don't worry he's friendly."

I told him that there is a leash law in this city and he told me to shut up. He was extremely rude. I half expected him to say, "I'm sorry."  The worst thing is that this person lives across the street from me and we've never even met each other. 

I am a dog lover. But I also know that while you might know your own dog well, others do not. Especially when that dog is a large breed, aggressive-looking dog. I am afraid of big dogs. I don't care how friendly the dog is, it is still a strange dog to me, and dogs can be unpredictable when it comes to other humans and especially around other dogs who are protective of their owners and can sense fear. My two dogs are not friendly towards other dogs, so when this dog approached us one of my dogs snapped and lunged.

Please people - just be polite. There are cases where dogs will get loose out of a yard, or where they are going from house to car and they may not be on a leash and may approach someone. But at least be nice, especially to your neighbors. And be understanding that not everyone feels comfortable having a strange dog run up to them.

Being a dog owner myself, I totaly agree with you.   Just because a persons dog may be friendly,  they don't know if the approaching dogs are friendly.   If the dogs were to starting fighting because your dogs are being protective of their owners.  Of course you/we would be blamed for having vicious dogs.  When in reality it should be the other persons fault for not having control of his dog and not having it leased.  

I have noticed that there are a couple of people who own German Shepards who allow their dogs to run loose in the park.  They must think the neighborhood park is a dog park. 

Thanks for bringing this up.

There is also an ordinance with a heft fine regarding loose dogs and letting your dog crap all over the Valley Park. In spring it ends up stinking, and not the nicest place for kids to play or adults to walk or jog.

I will try and post the ordinace but it may take awhile to find my copy of it. THey were haded out to neighbors over the past 2 years.