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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver Weekend, Saturday March 29, 2008 - 13 Leash-free not for everyone T he Town of Oakville is home to many beautiful trails and walkways ideally suited to dog walkers. For the safety of all animals and people using public spaces, all dogs are required by law to be licensed annually (By-law 1982-145) and are not permitted to be running at large (By-law 1977-20). Controlled walks offer a fun adventure for pets, but for owners looking for an opportunity to give their pet a run, the Town of Oakville has five leash-free zones. They are designated areas that offer a fully fenced play space for dogs, available seven days a week, from dawn to dusk. Responsible dog ownership is key to the safety, maintenance and success of these sites. Owners must stay with their dogs (a maximum of two per person) at all times, maintain control over and clean up after their pet. There can be many advantages to using leash-free spaces. Some dogs will enjoy the socialization with other dogs, while others will enjoy sniffing in a new space. Playing in these areas can be physically and mentally stimulating for dogs. Often dog owners benefit from the human socialization and education opportunity to learn about dog behaviour and breeds. These spaces become a community gathering centre for people who enjoy their dogs and a place to observe how dogs interact. Despite the many positive aspects of the leash-free zones, they are not ideally suited to all dogs. With a number of pets using the space at the same time it is important to remember that with free running animals, there is also risk. This is especially true for the small dog. Aggressive dog behaviour poses a threat to the safety of both owners and pets. Physical injury can also result when dogs engage in over-zealous play and get too close to humans. Dogs are pack animals and this open environment allows them to assemble loose `packs' while in the space. Exposure to animals with parasites or disease can also cause health problems for a dog. For dogs without up-to-date vaccinations, there is risk to their health. Puppies, in particular, should not be exposed to this environment. Safety is a primary concern. No dog under the age of four months is ready for a leash-free experience. One bad experience can create social problems for the dog for the rest of its life. There is the added problem of irre- Think Green. Breathe Easy. HUGE CENTRAL AIR & FURNACE $ Up to BEST PRICES EVER! SALE 4700 AND * Cash Back UP TO $2400 GOV. CASH BACK UP TO $1500 PET OF THE WEEK: Taz is an amazing Border Collie ... smart and ready to go. For more animals available for adoption visit www.oakvillehumane.ca, call 905-8451551 or visit the shelter located at 445 Cornwall Rd. sponsible pet owners who do not respect the rules of leash free participation: keep control over your pet, poop scoop and know the local dog bylaws to avoid infractions. All leash-free zones in Oakville are funded and organized by community volunteers who collectively ensure that abuses of these open spaces do not spoil their use. The Oakville and District Humane Society, as the Town's contracted animal enforcement service, has a working relationship with each of these groups to help keep them safe. Not all dogs are suited to leash-free environments. Dogs that are dog or people aggressive will act on those instincts given the opportunity. Those that are timid around people or animals will be overwhelmed by open exposure to both. Dog owners should use their good judgment when considering the leashfree zone as a suitable space for providing exercise for their pet. Responsible pet ownership is key to ensuring an ongoing, positive experience for both animals and people enjoying leash-free zones. To find a leash-free area in your neighbourhood, maps are available on the Town of Oakville's website at www.oakville.ca/Media_Files/RecCultu reBrochures/Leash-free_Zones.pdf. Dog by-laws are also available at www.oakville.ca. Yes! I want to join The Oakville & District Humane Society's monthly giving program and give hope today -- and every day. + NO PAYMENT! NO INTEREST! FOR 6 MONTHS *OAC Offer Ends March 31, 2008. MANUFACTURERS CASH BACK UP TO $800 HYDRO CASH BACK *Call for details. Financing Available + 8 Locations To Serve You Better! 905-849-4998 www.aireone.com 1-888-827-2665 CABINET REFACING AFTER SPACE AGE SHELVING The Storage Specialists BEFORE We can transform your existing cabinets with new doors andlaminate in your choice of style & colour. Select complimentary hardware & have the kitchen of your dreams. In Home Consultation No Payments, No Interest for 6 Months O.A.C. 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