Medicine Hat details five off-leash dog areas covering 58 hectares
New signage will mark boundaries of designated zones as the city clarifies where dogs can run leash-free following a policy change that took effect Sept. 8.
Why it matters
The new rules change where Medicine Hat dog owners can legally let pets off-leash and aim to reduce safety incidents on shared trails.
Medicine Hat has released more information on the five off-leash dog areas created under trail network changes that took effect Sept. 8, which made all parks, trails and open spaces on-leash by default unless specifically marked otherwise.
The five areas total 58 hectares and include the existing Westvue and Saratoga dog parks along with three new unfenced zones: a section of Echo Dale Regional Park, a corridor spanning the Ranchlands and Parkview neighbourhoods, and part of the Ross Glen natural area. The city says these sites were chosen for their popularity, open sightlines, multiple access points and reduced risk of unexpected encounters between dogs and other trail users.
New signage will identify the boundaries of designated off-leash zones at entry and exit points, and dogs must remain leashed in any area without such signage. City officials said the changes followed public feedback citing safety concerns, including reported incidents involving off-leash dogs and children, mobility device users, other vulnerable trail users and wildlife, with officials noting such incidents are likely under-reported.
Scott Richter, acting director of Parks and Recreation, acknowledged residents hold mixed views on the decision but said prioritizing public safety was necessary. The city said the goal is to give dogs space to run off-leash while making expectations clearer for all trail users.
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