Metro Vancouver is evaluating potential changes to the off-leash dog policy at Pacific Spirit Park, a popular destination for dog owners. The park, spanning over 2,000 acres of forested land, features 65 percent of its trails as leash-optional, attracting more than 360,000 dog visits annually. However, recent concerns over negative interactions between dogs and complaints from visitors have prompted a review of the park’s dog-management program.
Toby, a one-and-a-half-year-old Golden Retriever, enjoys visiting the park with his owner, Alex Shiff, who appreciates the opportunity for his dog to safely run off-leash in one of the few areas of the city that permits it. Yet, the increasing number of complaints related to aggressive dog behavior, dog fights, and even injuries like the one experienced by runner Annie Cierna, has raised alarm.
Cierna recounted a harrowing experience where a dog ran between her legs during a run, causing a serious injury that led to multiple surgeries and long-term recovery. “I’m hoping we can find a solution that makes the park safer for everyone,” Cierna said.
Richard Wallis, Metro Vancouver’s park operations supervisor, acknowledged the growing concern, citing hundreds of complaints and bylaw violations in recent years. He emphasized that the ongoing review will address various aspects of park management, including trail signage, education, enforcement, and the designation of leash-optional areas.
In a recent Parks Committee meeting, Cierna suggested limiting the leash-optional area to the north side of the park, leaving the rest leash-required. However, this proposal met resistance from other park users. Shiff, for example, argued that the north side is difficult to access due to limited parking and challenging terrain, making it an unsuitable option for many dog owners.
Dog-walker Paul Fruitman also voiced concerns about enforcing leash rules, stating that they may not be beneficial to dogs and their owners. “Leash requirements force dogs to be restrained without allowing them to adapt to different environments,” Fruitman said, adding that responsible dog owners should be able to let their pets off-leash in suitable areas.
With over four million annual visitors to the park, including walkers, joggers, cyclists, and equestrians, Wallis stressed the importance of shared spaces. “It’s crucial that everyone using the trails feels safe and respected,” he explained. He encouraged dog owners to maintain control over their pets and to be mindful of others by carrying leashes and cleaning up after their dogs.
While no official decisions have been made yet, Metro Vancouver plans to implement a pilot project this spring and invites public input during the review process.
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