The District of Saanich is looking to update its Animal Bylaw and dog owners should be prepared to leash up their pets more often in local parks.
Saanich released its draft People, Pets and Parks Strategy following a 16-month process to determine a framework for sharing Saanich parks among all users.
A key recommendation is requiring dogs to be on-leash at “all times,” said a district news release, except in designated leash-optional areas or fenced, leash-optional dog parks.
“Saanich’s current Animal Bylaw allows dogs off-leash under owner control in all parks unless otherwise specified,” said the district.
Fifty-seven of Saanich’s parks are identified in the strategy to accommodate potential leash-optional/under control areas either with no-fencing, full-fencing, or trails. Of these 57 parks, 12 have been identified for permanent, fenced leash-optional areas: Brodick, Cuthbert Holmes, Emily Carr, Hyacinth, Houlihan, Lambrick, Layritz, PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park), Rainbow, Regina, Rudd and Sierra Parks.
Cordova Bay beach has been identified for designated year-round, leash-optional beach access. All other beaches in Saanich would be on-leash year-round with no seasonal restrictions, if approved.
“The strategy also calls for increased education and enforcement, stewardship and operational maintenance,” said the district. “The strategy proposes that Saanich develop and implement a commercial dog walker permit, like the permit used by the Capital Regional District.”
The proposed strategy was developed with help from consultant Lees and Associates, which examined increasing park and outdoor amenity usage; community expectations; conflicting park uses; park management requirements; and environmental impacts, “especially given that Saanich is home to some of B.C.’s most unique and rare species-at-risk and ecosystems.”
“The feedback received through public engagement emphasized the importance that the strategy recommendations recognize the needs of different park users while protecting natural areas and habitat,” said the district. “The feedback also emphasized there is a need for parks to accommodate different types of pets/dogs depending on size, behaviour, level of training, age, and mental state.”
Ultimately, Saanich parks are for everyone. Pets are a welcome part of the community, and both people and pets benefit from outdoor recreation and use of public parks. The strategy will help achieve a balanced approach for sharing Saanich parks.
The third and final round of public engagement is underway to share the draft strategy. An online feedback form is available until midnight on June 11. The final strategy will be presented to council on June 26.
READ MORE: Off-leash dogs can be detrimental to park experience
