Advocates for an Off-Leash Park in South Lake Union

The Cascade Neighborhood Council meeting last month was an eye-opener, to say the least.  Some pro dog park people came out (thank you!!) but the vast majority of attendees spoke of concerns about an off-leash park.  Specifically, they voiced their unhappiness with the irresponsible dog owners that they saw using Cascade Park.  These owners were allowing their dogs to run through the pea patch, spoiling the edibility of the food grown there; not picking up after their dogs; and letting the dogs run through the playground (causing health risks for children using the playground).  There also were concerns about dogs who were off-leash and not responding to voice controls.  Attendees reported incidents where they feared for their safety due to dogs who they viewed as out of control.

IMHO, the vast majority of dog owners are responsible.  There always will be the bad actors.  Problem is, these bad actors are hurting us, the responsible dog owners.  This message was clearly communicated to me when I met last week with a few of the people who were concerned about establishment of a dog park.  I spoke about the importance of stewardship for any successful park, including dog parks.  As the conversation progressed, however, it became clear that dog park stewardship must begin now. 

We need to establish credibility.  How do we do that?  For one thing, we can continue to be vigilant about picking up poop, keeping dogs out of the playground, leashing dogs that have not earned the right to be off leash, and being aware that there are people who are afraid of or don't particularly like dogs.  The bad actors tarnish the reputation of the majority, who are considerate dog owners.  

If we want to be successful in our quest for a dog park, we must start now.  I know it's not the "Seattle way," but we cannot be afraid to speak up if someone is setting a bad example.  If they let a poop drop and walk away, call them on it and hand them a bag.  If their dog is running through the playground, let them know that this is unhealthy for the children who play there.  Consider yourself "on duty" as a SLU Park steward when you are letting your dog run at Cascade Park, or Denny Park, or SLU Park, or anywhere else where (technically) off-leash dogs are not allowed.  Now is the time to establish our credentials for canine stewardship.