Whether you live in the city of Alexandria, Maryland, DC, or elsewhere in Virginia, leash laws exist. Part of being a responsible dog owner means abiding by this law, however you feel about it personally. Generally speaking, “Leash laws” require dogs to be on a leash and under control whenever they're off their owners' property, unless a specific area is designated for unleashed dogs.

When I first moved to Alexandria, it was not apparent where the boundaries were for the off- leash dog areas, especially at the parks along the waterfront that are unfenced.  I was even so bold as to challenge someone who had her dog running along a waterfront path off-leash.  She called out “She’s friendly” referring to her dog.  My response was, “She needs to be on a leash, it’s the law”.   She claimed she was in an off-leash area, affectionately known as dog parks, and I was stunned into silence, totally embarrassed. I had no idea these unfenced, off-leash areas existed.  Later, I saw a sign that explained where the boundaries of the off-leash area were, which is clearly marked by four paw embossed posts.  The path of the “friendly” dog I encountered was clearly outside of these boundaries.

I wondered how anyone kept their dogs within the clearly marked posts.  I imagined being a dog running freely, how would I resist the temptation to run through the clean white sand of the nearby volleyball court, or jump into the river for a cool dip on a hot sunny day.  I did learn, with several visits to this park, that with plenty of voice commands and my full attention, I was able to manage my dog Sasha successfully.  In the off-leash area, I watched her instinctively run in faster and faster circles – completely FREE - while looking back at me to check if it was really ok.  I relished how little effort and energy was expended to exercise her to within the brink of exhaustion.  

With so many dog parks, it’s frustrating to be confronted by off-leash dogs in areas not designated as such.   In recreational, national, and county parks, or wildlife preserves, trail head signs clearly indicate that it is unlawful to have dogs off-leash. While responsible off-leash activities are fun for you and your dog, unpredictable off-leash behaviors can be dangerous or even fatal. We have all see the fading “Lost” pet signs taped to trees or lampposts, and it’s hard not to wonder if these pets were ever reunited with their owners.  And if I have heard it once, I have heard it one thousand times, “He’s good with other dogs” or “She won’t hurt you.”  

But what many dog owners don’t consider is the other people and dogs their off-leash dog impacts.  Runners and bicyclists may have to stop suddenly or change direction to avoid a collision, and sometimes a crash does result.  There are people and children who are outright terrified of dogs.  Let’s not forget that not every dog plays well with others.  For example, dogs that experienced trauma, whether or not it included other dogs, feel severe distress when off-leash dogs approach, often at high speeds.   I have witnessed wagging tails turn into snarls and snaps as the off-leash dog arrives unwelcomed by an apprehensive dog.  Often these encounters are followed by either an owner apology, having NEVER seen this side of their dog before, or angry owners who claim the victim dog acted aggressively.

Violations of the leash law are only sometimes the result of Houdini dogs magically slipping free from collars to run off into the wild.  Most off-leash dogs have been released by the owner so both can experience freedom and nature at their own pace. Who wouldn’t love a world where dogs could obey the crosswalk signs and yield pedestrians and maybe even pick up their own poop while we’re at it.  But the reality is dog behavior is not predictable.  Allowing a dog to roam freely in public spaces not only infringes upon the rights and freedoms of other citizens, threatening their safety, it jeopardizes that same dogs’ welfare.   

If yours happens to be a Houdini dog, there are precautions you can take to prevent your dog slipping out of their collar or leash.  Prong collars pull apart easily, but owners have the option of attaching a slip collar to prevent escape.  Integrated leash collar combos are great, but the cinch can loosen over time.  Leashes can fray and plastic clips or buckles weaken and or crack with use.   A new collar needs to fit snugly to prevent dogs from backing out of it.  So a quick, pre-walk inspection can save a lot of heartache.  

If you come across an unaccompanied off-leash dog, you have several options. If confident the dog is friendly, catch hold of the dogs’ scruff or collar to check for tags and call the owner. If you cannot reach the owner, you can drive the dog to your local shelter or contact Animal Control to pick it up.

Ensure the safety of your dog and show consideration for others by adhering to leash laws.  Remember, your dogs rely on you to keep them safe, healthy, and happy.  So, leash up before you set out.  It may be the best way to show your love this Valentines day.  

Sue manages the Alexandria Office of Doggywalker.com located in Old town. Doggywalker.com is a professional pet-sitting company providing daily walks and customized in-home pet care. Celebrating 10 years in business, visit Doggywalker.com  or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

< Prev		Next >