The removal of a dog bag dispenser at a Peachland park has lead to a one-year trial allowing dogs in three neighbourhood parks.
Dog owners complained on social media about the recent removal of the dispenser from outside Chevalier Park where, according to bylaws, dogs are not allowed district staff told council at its Feb. 25 meeting.
Staff suggested that Chevalier, Morrison and Knoblauch parks be used in a pilot project.
鈥淎s long as the dog owners are responsible,鈥� Mayor Patrick Van Minsel said. 鈥淚f not, we have to go back to our old bylaw.鈥�
Dogs would not be allowed near playground or sports areas in the parks.
Councillor Terry Condon was skeptical. 鈥淏ased on the behaviours of many dog owners in this town I do not have a great deal of confidence that the parks will be kept clean.鈥�
Dogs are currently allowed on leash at Lambly Park, and off leash at Sanderson, Pincushion, and Mackinnon parks, as well as the doggie beach at Highway 97 and Princeton Avenue. Dogs on leash are also welcome on any beach that is not a designated swim beach.
