Letter: A friendly reminder: leash bylaws are there for a reason

Hello fellow Beachers,

Now that spring is here we should all be reminded to keep our dogs leashed – as we should do all year long, except for designated off-leash areas.

Areas such as Kew Gardens and especially Ashbridge’s Bay should be of extra concern. This time of year native animals such as squirrels, red squirrels, mink, otter, beaver, birds and waterfowl are nesting and will be raising their young. Unleashed dogs chasing these animals as well as disturbing their nests will limit the development or perhaps even kill newborns. These native animals were here before we were. Yelling and whistling to corral unleashed dogs is unnatural and irritating to both wildlife and to people without dogs who enjoy the peace and quiet of a nice walk, just like you do.

Unleashed dogs also leave excrement behind, sometimes unseen by the owner. And animals that brush through areas posted as having poison ivy can also transmit it.

Neighbourly cooperation is good for everyone and appreciated by all.

Clyde Robinson