At a North Bend city council meeting on April 16th, 2024, new community member Sarah Pirotis called for enhanced enforcement of local leash laws, highlighting safety concerns in the city’s parks and trails.
Pirotis shared her challenging experiences with off-leash dogs, which have negatively affected her ability to enjoy the city’s outdoor amenities.
“Honorable Mayor, council members, and city staff thank you for the opportunity to speak today regarding park safety,” Pirotis stated. She reported repeated incidents involving off-leash dogs that have disrupted peaceful outings with her dog Greta, who suffers from anxiety. “This is more than an inconvenience to me. It’s a serious safety issue,” she emphasized.
The City of North Bend has reminded all pet owners about the importance of adhering to the North Bend Municipal Code 6.08.020. This ordinance requires dogs to be kept on a leash no longer than 15 feet outside their homes or vehicles unless they are in a designated off-leash area.
The city also shared tips for responsible pet ownership and ways to ensure dogs can enjoy outdoor activities without violating leash laws.
Suggestions from the Washington Trails Association include visiting off-leash parks like Three Forks Off-Leash Dog Park, engaging dogs with intensive training during walks, and using dog packs to wear out young, energetic dogs by giving them a job.
There is no place in the State of Washington where your dog can go and be out of control. Control means heels when told, stays, refrains from barking, and is restrained from approaching any other animal or person. Your dog will stop on a dime and return to you when you call, no exceptions. If that means Fido is always leashed, then so be it.
As North Bend is known for its vast outdoor recreational areas, maintaining a safe and pleasant environment for all users is a priority. The city values the feedback from residents like Pirotis and encourages everyone to contribute to keeping public spaces welcoming by adhering to leash laws.
