Local opinion: Tucson Parks and Recreation implores you to #LeashUpCleanUp when visiting parks

As the director of Tucson Parks and Recreation, I often field complaints about behavior in parks. Some of the most disheartening ones are negative encounters due to dogs running free off-leash or owners not picking up their dog’s poop.

I happen to own five dogs and take it very seriously anytime I plan to take any of them to the park. I always ensure they are on a reliable leash and that I have a poop bag with me. When I am in the park, I am always aware of our surroundings because I know that not all who visit parks like dogs, and other dogs visiting the park may not be dog friendly.

Unfortunately, while there are many who do practice responsible dog ownership when in a public park, we have been experiencing a rise in complaints about those who choose not to take seriously a park visit with their dog. In response, Tucson Parks and Recreation is using September, aka Responsible Dog Ownership Month, to highlight the not so “pawesome” behavior and why it comes with risk.

Choosing to enter a park and letting your dog off leash is a risk to you, your dog, and anyone in the park at that time. Even the most well-trained dog can choose not to listen when you call them back to you. What are the consequences if they don’t respond? They can be hit by a car, bitten by another dog, scare an adult or child that has dog phobia, or be attacked by a javelina or coyote. The options are endless, but all have negative consequences from injury, financial liability, or even death for your dog.

We are also getting a lot of complaints about dog owners who let their dogs run loose in fenced sports fields. Imagine your kid at a baseball game running full speed, sliding into first, only to slide into a pile of poop. This actually has happened. We’ve had dogs dig holes in the fields and damage the turf by kicking at the grass after pooping. Sports fields are where the rules of the game are to be followed, yet some dog owners have chosen to make their own rules, ignoring the law.

All we want is for people to be responsible dog owners. It’s simple, really. Keep your dog leashed so it is always under a reliable degree of control during your park visit. Pick up after your dog when they poop. We know it’s gross, but it’s even more gross for people to step in it and drag it everywhere, or for athletes to come face to face with it while doing drills. Lastly, keep dogs to the open spaces and walking path areas that are designated for shared use.

I love my dogs, and I want to think that anyone who chooses to load their dog into a car and drive to a park, loves their dog as well. On behalf of Tucson Parks and Recreation, and all who enjoy and find value in visiting a park, we implore you to #LeashUpCleanUp and keep parks safe and enjoyable for all.