In January, county commissioners shared their 2017 priorities with the public. They listed big issues like improving the financial stability of La Plata County and improving the land-use code and water quality. Important stuff. The list also included, “addressing the barking dog nuisance issue.” It would be funny if only barking dogs, and dogs in general, were not also a serious issue.
It is tricky territory because we know Durango loves its dogs. Dog moms and dads can be as protective of their dogs as they are their children, which for many are one and the same. Like parents, dog owners do not respond well to being told what they can and cannot do with their dogs. Because of recent and recurring incidents with citizens encountering aggressive dogs within and outside of the city limits, as the weather warms up it is worth reviewing good pet etiquette.
First and foremost, owners are 100 percent responsible for their dog’s behavior. Bad dog behavior is almost always a result of bad owner behavior. The number one most important rule for city dogs, on- and off-trail, is to abide by the leash requirement (except in the dog park). It is the law. Off-leash dogs, under no physical or verbal restraint, get into the most trouble.
Dogs off-leash get excited. They can charge, jump on and bite other, often smaller, dogs and children. They poop out of sight of their owners and can tangle with other trail users. Dogs, bikes, baby strollers, skateboarders, horses and people can make a mean mix and someone or something can get hurt, sometimes fatally.
Several incidents this winter illustrate this problem. A cyclist on Missionary Ridge Road, a Nordic skier at Vallecito Reservoir and a runner on the Animas River Trail were charged and bitten by unrestrained dogs. Never is this acceptable and was easily avoidable.
Be a good neighbor. Leash your dog or visit the dog park. Seek training locally, online or in books. Pick up your dog’s poop and respect other trail users. Report aggressive dog incidents to animal control and remember that not everyone (gasp) loves dogs.
