As wonderful as it is to see a pup joyfully absorbed in the singular moment of chasing a squirrel through brush – tongue hanging out, legs pumping, tail wagging - there are broader implications of letting dogs off-leash that all pet owners should consider.
When walking our dogs through Toronto’s ravines, we should always, of course, take into consideration the many types of users in these natural spaces, and that not all people (or dogs) are comfortable being close to off-leash dogs. If there are cyclists on the trail as well, their faster pace is trickier to react to in time to get your dog out of the way (it’s much easier if those cyclists – and I include myself in this category – ring their bells on their approach, but easier still if the dog is on lead.) Ravines and parks are a common good, and respecting everyone’s right to use a trail is important.
Bella’s first hike in the Rouge – note the jaunty scarf and the leash!
From an ecological perspective, off-leash dogs influence the forest and ravine ecosystem in many ways. Dogs can transmit diseases to wildlife pick up parasites and infections from wildlife and potentially transmit these diseases to humans. Dogs can also harass, chase or even kill wildlife such as squirrels and birds. In terms of vegetation, the trampling and soil disturbances caused from free-roaming dogs can up-root sensitive native perennials. The disruption of these important plants further exacerbates their struggle to compete with invasive plants such as garlic mustard and burdock.
In areas where ecological restoration is ongoing, the presence of off-leash dogs can be particularly problematic for the newly establishing flora. On slopes, which are a common feature of ravines, foot traffic by both dog and human can increase and speed up erosion, which can lead to exposure of tree roots, which in turn puts nearby trees under stress.
Urban natural spaces are highly valuable and contribute tangible and intangible wealth to city dwellers. In the Toronto region we are lucky to have access to so much urban nature. As the stewards and users of these places, our thoughts and actions should take into account both the joy of use and the responsibility of protecting.
If you are looking for off-leash friendly places, check out this list of city designated off-leash areas. For nature trails to explore, click here. My favourite spots for a hike are Crother’s Woods and Rouge Park.
Jen Vander Vecht is LEAF’s Residential Planting Programs Assistant.