With cool weather officially here, dog owners can rejoice! Long strolls with your four-legged friend in Scottsdale parks are finally attainable again. One thing to keep in mind when out in public is making sure your dog is always on a leash. In Arizona, it is against the law to have a dog off-leash in a public area. According to Arizona Revised Statute 11-1012: “D. No person in charge of any dog shall permit such dog in a public park or upon any public school property unless the dog is physically restrained by a leash, enclosed in a car, cage or similar enclosure or being exhibited or trained at a recognized kennel club event, public school or park sponsored event.”
Having your dog off-leash may seem harmless, especially if they are well trained, but often times it is more dangerous than it seems. Dogs that are off-leash can be a danger to other patrons and children who may not be comfortable with dogs approaching them. Other dogs may not be as well trained as yours, putting their safety and yours in danger. Dogs off-leash can also be in danger to wild animals in Arizona. Coyote sightings are more prominent in neighborhoods, and if you’re visiting the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, there are a number of wild animals that can harm your dog. In Arizona, it’s the law that your dog needs to be on a leash when out in public. No matter where you take your dog or how well trained they are, your dog is safer when on a leash.
Fortunately for dog owners, Scottsdale has three designated off-leash areas where dogs can run free at Chaparral Park, Horizon Park and Vista del Camino Park. We encourage dog owners to visit our parks frequently but remember to always have your dog on a leash, it’s the law.
The Leash Up Clean Up campaign began in 2021 and has since grown into a state-wide initiative to inform the public about the importance of leashing your dog and cleaning up after them in public. Scottsdale Parks and Recreation and Scottsdale Police are proud to support the and help make Scottsdale parks a cleaner and safer place for all visitors; humans and dogs alike.
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up