Parks discusses off-leash dog rules

At its September regular monthly meeting, the Point Roberts Park and Recreation District discussed the history of its off-leash dog rules, with staff set to review past regulations to clarify which rules are currently in effect. The discussion was prompted by a social media post asking whether Point Roberts has an area where dogs can run off leash, as well as conflicting signage around Baker Field and the surrounding park.
Former commissioner Bennett Blaustein, who helped write and revise the district’s dog rules in 2016 and 2018, described previous efforts to allow limited off leash use. A temporary fenced dog park was established at the back of Baker Field, but Bennett said dogs continued to run loose on trails and during restricted hours. “We had three dog bites within that six month time period,” he said. He said the district also received complaints about owners failing to clean up after their dogs.
Blaustein said an enclosed area would be necessary if the district allows dogs to run off leash. “You really need an enclosed dog park for loose dogs, and they should not be on the trails or anywhere else because you have bicyclists, horseback riders, walkers, and loose dogs. It doesn’t work.”
The board tabled the discussion until next month while staff continue reviewing the district’s records. Members of the public are always invited to attend Park and Recreation District meetings and provide input. The October meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Oct. 6 at the community center and online via Zoom. The Zoom link is bit.ly/3UCOvAU.