I disagree with Saanich’s draft proposal’s key recommendations requiring dogs to be on leash at all times except in designated leash-optional parks. If Saanich is going to change this bylaw then there needs to be a greater amount of off-leash areas available than what they have currently proposed.
I specifically disagree with the proposed 1.5-km loop at PKOLS and Parker Beach being designated as the only off-leash beach. I am in the sandwich generation, I have children, a full-time job, elderly parents, and a black lab. In addition to taking care of my family, I also need to take care of myself. Being able to joyfully take my dog for a walk is one of my favourite things and a wonderful aspect of living in Saanich.
I walk PKLOS weekly and do not find it to be crowded with either people or dogs. Non-dog-owning friends will often accompany me to PKLOS. We can walk 9,000 steps and climb the equivalent of 50 staircases in one hour. It is a great workout for body and mind. We have many friendly encounters with other dogs, dog owners, families, and solo walkers. My friends love the walk and always remark that their walk is enriched by the dog and owner interactions.
The only unhappy people I have ever seen on PKLOS are the volunteers. I get that they have a difficult task and that it can seem like they are fighting a losing battle. Dogs are not the enemy in this battle for the environment. The heat dome was very damaging to our environment as is our current climate. Removing or severely restricting off-leash access to PKLOS is not the solution to saving PKLOS’ ecosystem.
Swan Lake Christmas Hill (160+ acres) and Quick’s Bottom Park (19.4 ha) are completely dog-free areas. I haven’t seen any reference to these options for people who desire a dog-free experience in Saanich.
Karla Benson
Saanich
