We know that a dog-friendly city is a people-friendly city!
Dogs need outdoor places to run, play, and make new friends. So do their owners.
Dogs need safe streets that meet our vision zero commitment of zero fatalities or serious injuries. So do their owners.
We need to continue to get creative and reimagine flexible use of outdoor public spaces, including dog parks. We must move forward with the small and incremental improvements that dramatically increase community connection and livability, such as local parks and recreation opportunities. Many neighbourhood dog owners function as a "neighbourhood watch" and help keep an eye out for one another. The social return on investment considering the small cost is enormous.
From fenced, off leash dog parks such as Braithwaite Park in Garneau (8018 112 Street) to Charles Simmonds Park in Mckernan/Belgravia, we need to make it a priority that every neighbourhood has accessible green spaces, including dog parks. We need to continue to try new ideas such as the off leash areas in ice rinks being piloted in Greenfield and other neighbourhoods that bring neighbours together in safe, designated areas.
As your councillor, I would continue to champion public spaces that build safe, welcoming, inclusive spaces for all, including our four-legged friends.
PS: We ordered more dog bones, so reach out if you have a dog and would like a tasty treat!