the day's dogma:

Leash Law:  More often than not these days I see dogs walking with their pet parents off leash. The places were I'm walking have leash laws, though. So why is this? Why do I have a problem with this?

Over the years, I have seen many "HBC's" or dogs that have been hit by cars. 100% of the dogs had "never done this", "well behaved", etc. While I don't doubt that, even if there is a 1 in 5,000 "walk" chance, why risk it? I don't trust 100% of the drivers out there and I'm sure we all can atest to this if you spend any amount of your time driving (streets. Not freeway-that's another story.). This county is well populated with bunnies and squirrels. If I had a dime for every dog client that became a client because of a squirrel...

Squirrels and bunnies are like CRACK for dogs.

This is a well developed city/county and we have coyotes. I have heard personal accounts of dogs that were taken on and off leash or taunted by a 'scouter' coyote while on walks.  On residential streets.  I'm not about to make it easier for them by having our dog off leash.

The leash laws are also important as some of the bridal trails, next to streets, are used by equestrians. Many horses will easily spook when facing a dog running toward them, especially without a human nearby. (Let's face it, the dogs off leash are not heeling by their pet parent's side.)

If thought of possible injury to your pet or others isn't enough, there's the pack mentality to consider  [out of respect to those that do abide by the leash laws].  If an off-leash dog encounters a dog that is on the lead, that dogs is "different". The on the lead dog sees the off-leash dog as "different" as well. Many dogs revert into a fear-based anxiety that will either make them unresponsive to your commands or become defensive. Since the dogs can't all be off leash at the same time (such as at dog park), this is the dynamic. 

We have plenty of hiking trails, organized activities/sporting events and dog parks that give dogs safe(r) opportunities to be off lead if one is concerned about dog "freedom". If it's a concern about "choke chains", "pulling him at the neck", or some other issue: a) that's not an excuse if by chance there is a legal problem (dog fight, car accident, cop who is ticket-happy...)  b) there are gentle leaders, halties, and full harnesses to reduce the strain on your body and their necks. It's "more fun" for them excuse doesn't cut it either as how do you know they have less fun if they're on the lead? My dog and every other dog I know seem pretty darn happy to be going on a walk period. If I stuck him in a car and drove him around the same path, he doesn't tell me but I'm pretty sure he would say it's just as much fun. But he needs the exercise.

I'm not usually black and white on issues but I'm trying to come up with an argument for why dogs should be off leads while being walked. I can't. 

Well, at least the dogs are getting exercise!

Everyone needs to MOVE more!