Saanich’s New Pet Strategy Ignites Outrage Among Dog Owners

UPDATE: Saanich’s controversial new pet strategy, the People, Pets, and Parks Strategy (PPP), has sparked immediate backlash among local dog owners since its implementation in November 2023. The strategy mandates that all pets must be leashed unless in specific off-leash areas, a ruling that many residents are calling “absolutely ridiculous.”

Dog owners like Lynn McDonald and Ruth Nelson are voicing their concerns, stating that the new rules unfairly restrict their freedom and that the designated off-leash areas do not meet their needs. “It’s just too hot for both myself and my dog,” McDonald said, highlighting the inadequacy of the off-leash zone at Cuthbert Holmes Park.

According to the PPP, approximately 60 percent of Saanich’s 99 parks feature leash-optional times. However, McDonald points out that these areas often lack shade and accessibility, making them unsuitable for dogs, especially during the summer months. “The area that they have designated is right up on the berm. There is zero shade up there,” she emphasized.

The district argues that the PPP aims to protect sensitive ecosystems and balance the coexistence of dogs and residents. Yet, local dog owners, including Nelson, feel that the new restrictions stem from a minority of irresponsible pet owners unfairly punishing the majority. “I’ve been walking here for 13 years, and I could probably count on one hand the real altercations that have happened between dogs,” Nelson stated.

The changes have created a palpable sense of frustration among dog owners, who are now considering leaving Saanich for more pet-friendly municipalities. “You start feeling like your community is working against you,” McDonald added. Many dog owners are questioning whether officials have adequately considered the real issues at play.

In response to the backlash, Saanich Parks has acknowledged the potential difficulties posed by the new strategy. They are currently enhancing signage in parks to clarify where dogs are permitted to roam off-leash and hope to improve public awareness. Additionally, plans are underway to modify leash-optional areas at PKOLS and Cuthbert Holmes parks, set to be available for public use by 2026.

Despite the municipality’s efforts, the sentiment among dog owners remains one of discontent. “It seems like it’s an attack on dog owners,” Nelson remarked. Many believe that the new regulations could erode the community spirit among responsible dog owners, pushing them to seek more accommodating environments elsewhere.

While Saanich emphasizes that enforcement will focus on education rather than punishment, dog owners argue that the measures are excessive and detrimental. “They should seriously take another look at it because it’s definitely overreach,” McDonald urged.

As tensions rise, the community is left grappling with the implications of the PPP, and residents like McDonald and Nelson are left wondering if their voices will be heard. With dog owners feeling increasingly alienated, Saanich faces a critical moment to reassess its approach and foster a more inclusive environment for all residents.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.