Re: Golf course trail an off-leash area (Letters, Oct. 24)
I agree that the Cedar Hill trail is an amazing gift to our community and have walked my large breed dogs on leash on the chip trail for over 15 years. While it is unfortunate that the letter-writer was bitten by an off-leash dog, I do feel however that it was likely more of an owner issue than a breed specific problem.
From a dog owner’s perspective here is a little etiquette that we would welcome from the joggers that also use the trail.
Travel single file: There is, at best, room for two to three people to walk abreast on the trail. If you are running as a group, kindly drop to single file when you are passing seniors or running past people walking dogs.
Call out: A call out “on your left” or “on your right” would be appreciated when you approach us rapidly from behind. I would be more than happy to step to one side or another to allow you to pass without tripping over my leash.
Boot camp participants: The boot camp phenomenon hit the trail this year. To the instructors we would ask that you respect the fact that it is a public trail you are using. I watched in horror as an elderly gentleman was nearly trampled by a group.
Joggers with off-leash dogs: Your dog is chasing the wildlife as you run ahead on the trail. And we all know you are not picking up after them.
My own dog has been accosted by a variety of breeds this year on the trail. Two boxers on different occasions, an English spaniel, a bulldog, a coonhound mix and two Yorkies. Yes, Yorkies. The owner laughed in amusement as his off-leash dogs nipped and bit the legs and belly of my extremely tolerant dog.
As a responsible Rottweiler owner, I know what the headlines would have read if the situation had been reversed.
Delores Dixon
Saanich