The North Shore Land Alliance’s 14 preserves provide neighbors and other visitors a chance to connect with nature while enjoying 32 acres of preserved open space. We welcome everyone to our slices of heaven–including our leashed furry friends. However, two recent troubling incidents that occurred because of irresponsible dog owners have compromised the safety of our preserve workers, visitors, pets and wildlife.
Last week an off-leash dog attacked another (leashed) dog, resulting in an injury that required emergency veterinary care. Just days later, another dog broke away from its owners and fatally attacked a large deer in the preserve. To the horror of onlookers, this vicious attack lasted more than 30 minutes.
Both events could have been entirely prevented by owners keeping their dogs on a sturdy leash. Not only do leashes prevent dangerous encounters with other animals, but they can ensure the safety of your pet and other visitors.
If your unleashed dog wanders off the trail, for example, they could be exposed to Lyme Disease. They may also leave behind waste which increases nitrogen in the soil, encouraging the growth of invasive plants and making it harder for many native plants to survive. Additionally, while we love dogs, some visitors may not appreciate your pet’s enthusiastic greeting and become uncomfortable or scared. Our preserves should be a place for all to enjoy nature, not a place of fear.
Leashing your dog is an important way to ensure that our preserves remain a safe place for everyone in our community–people, dogs and wildlife included. While we are certain that most of you have lovely, well-mannered dogs, incidents that threaten the safety of us all are unacceptable. Please keep your dog on a leash at all times. Our organization protects open space for humans and wildlife alike. All should feel safe in nature the moment they enter our gates.
Sincerely,
The North Shore Land Alliance
