The Editor,
Unleashed dogs in parks are a nightmare to those who are scared of dogs. Many parks in Richmond require dogs to be leashed at all times, however the majority of dog owners let their dog roam freely around the park.
I recently came across a man walking his dog in a park that has signs requiring dog owners to leash their dogs. I asked him nicely to leash his dog because my brother was afraid of dogs.
He responded saying that he would rather pay the fine.
I was extremely surprised at how he responded. However, he wasn't the only one walking a dog without a leash. I counted 10 or 12 dogs that were unleashed in the park. It is a surprise to me how Richmond does not take this issue seriously. Why won't this issue be taken seriously?
How are people who are afraid of dogs supposed to walk in public parks where dogs are required to be leashed?
There really is only one solution to this problem. Enforce this law and actually fine the people that are disobeying. Maybe then people who are afraid of dogs could walk in parks without being scared.
Richy Wang, 16
Richmond
