Metro Vancouver has reassured dog owners that it has no plans to implement major changes to the leash requirements at Pacific Spirit Park, despite recent concerns from the public. The confusion arose after a proposal was made by a member of the public during a Parks Committee meeting, suggesting that all dogs be leashed on trails south of West 16th Avenue. The proposal came from a UBC assistant professor, who shared her personal experience of suffering permanent knee damage after being charged by a dog in 2023.
Richard Wallis, Metro Vancouver’s park operations supervisor, clarified that the suggestion is not currently under consideration. However, the regional district is reviewing its dog management program following numerous public complaints and concerns, with over 200 comments received in recent years.
Currently, about two-thirds of the 55 kilometers of mixed-use trails in Pacific Spirit Park are designated as “leash-optional,” accommodating not only dogs but also pedestrians, cyclists, and horses. With over four million visitors annually, the park’s popularity has led to an increase in dog traffic, especially post-pandemic, as many people adopted pets during the lockdown period. The presence of both leash-optional and leash-required trails in some areas has led to occasional conflicts, especially given the narrowness of some trails.
Wallis noted that Metro Vancouver is gathering feedback to refine the trail system and improve safety for all visitors. He mentioned that a pilot project could be introduced this spring to address public concerns and potentially simplify the management of dog-friendly spaces in the park.
Dog owners interviewed in the park expressed concern over reducing off-leash areas, suggesting that such changes would crowd remaining areas and limit space for dogs to roam. Some also pointed to unclear signage and stressed that addressing the signage would be a better solution.
Metro Vancouver is committed to ensuring the park remains safe for everyone while balancing the needs of dog owners and other visitors. Feedback from the public will be incorporated into future planning efforts.
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