Leash and dog waste laws aim to protect the well-being of people, the environment, and pets, including your dog. Parks serve as inclusive and accessible spaces for all, from children to individuals with dog allergies and more, making it crucial to maintain a welcoming atmosphere for all park goers.
Off-leash dogs can make public spaces unwelcoming to your neighbors, and not picking up after your pet causes challenges for both the environment and those looking to enjoy the park.
The following solutions make a big difference for all when navigating parks with your furry companion.
Use A Non-Retractable Leash
Non-retractable leashes:
- keep your pet close, allowing others to comfortably pass by without the threat of getting tangled
- are more visible and less likely to break, ensuring better control of your pet
- protect wildlife and vegetation, allowing the owner to monitor and prevent disruptions
- safeguard your pet from potential dangers in the environment, such as ponds, pipes, noxious weeds, or wildlife waste
Pick Up After Your Pet
- pet waste contains harmful bacteria (such as E coli) that can cause illness in people, pets, and wildlife
- rain can wash uncollected waste into water bodies, polluting the environment by disrupting the natural balance of ecosystems.
- pet waste contains chemicals and toxins that can leach into the soil and eventually reach water bodies. This contamination can degrade water quality, affect aquatic ecosystems, and threaten the overall health of the waterway
- similar to yard waste, pet waste contains nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus that can cause harmful algae blooms in lakes and streams that make waterways unsafe for recreation.
According to Golden Valley City Code, failing to comply with leash and waste regulations can result in penalties. For more information on animal waste regulations, refer to Sec. 6-1 of Golden Valley City Code. By adhering to these guidelines, you help maintain the cleanliness and safety of the City’s dog-friendly spaces.
Learn more about off-leash pet areas on the Seasonal Off-Leash Pet Areas web page.