Officials from the County’s park system are reminding dog owners of the importance of keeping their animals on a leash.
Montgomery Parks launched a public awareness campaign for the month of August seeking to let owners know leashing their pets is the law except within the county’s eight dog parks.
- Black Hill Regional Park
- Cabin John Regional Park
- Dewey Local Park
- Ellsworth Urban Park
- Olney Manor Recreational Park
- Piedmont Woods Local Park
- Ridge Road Recreational Park
- Wheaton Regional Park
The Show Us Your Leash campaign asks park visitors to take a picture of their pet enjoying a park, on-leash, then post it on Instagram or Twitter and tag Montgomery Parks. August is also National Dog Month and Montgomery Parks says encouraging dog owners to show their pets and the public some love this month, is another way to celebrate.
“We have had reports in area parks about off-leash dogs fighting, chasing people, injuring wildlife, getting lost or being hit by cars traveling on nearby roads,” said Captain Tracy Lieberman, Park Police public information officer. “Even the best-behaved dog can get scared and act aggressively or take off running. Holding the leash keeps the pet owner in control of the situation.”
Officials also are warning those who see a dog off their leash, to keep their distance and contact Park Police to report the issue. Violators could be fined up to $50 for the first offense and $100 for repeat infractions.
