Keep your dogs on a leash when walking them in parks

Please walk your dog on a leash in parks in town that have signs that state “Dogs on leash.”

Why? Why have a dog on a leash? Because some of us who are disabled and do not want dog problems can be at a city park too and have “peace” without dogs harassing us or scaring us, or stepping in dog “doo doo.” You get the picture!

I recently went to a city park here in town. On three occasions we went, and dog owners did not have dogs on leash. We ended up leaving each time. When I asked “Why?’ to dog owners, the owners’ answers were: “I will when I see you here next time,” “I don’t have to, this is my baby.” “Do you have children?” and “I will,” but she never put the dog on a leash and walked right past a sign that said “Dogs on leash.”

One lady even continued to swear obscenities and yell at my son and I and stated bad stuff you do not want to know. Scary and sad!

My son and I are disabled. We like the park too but do not like dogs bothering us. We had a dog but used a leash. One day dogs came up to us with a lady and almost started a dog fight right in front of us. No leash — close call. Someone could have been physically hurt if I didn’t ask them quickly to take the dog away and put it on a leash.

On Oct. 4, 2017 my son was hurt. My son ran to the park bench and cried out, “Mommy, mommy, keep me safe!” as the owner of a dog allowed the dog to run free in the park. Post trauma!!

Isn’t the park for people too? Or is it for dogs to control? Please keep dogs on a leash. Respect all people including the disabled. Thank you!