Dear Editor:
Today I walked up to Edgemont Village, with my dog. We stopped in at two banks. The dog got his “good boy” cookies, I did my banking, and then we went to the library to pick up a book I had reserved.
I secured my dog at the spot I normally do, near the area designated for dogs. A gentleman from animal control, who was exiting the library as I entered, stopped me and said I could no longer tie my dog and leave him alone, no matter it was a two-minute errand into the library to retrieve my book.
According to the District of North Vancouver, no dog may be left unattended.
I find this upsetting on so many levels. The village is a wonderful family friendly and welcoming area for walking. As is well known, parking in the village is almost non-existent. The village has always been dog friendly. Dogs are leashed to telephone poles and benches outside Starbucks, Delany’s, Cobs and many more establishments. It is definitely quicker to nip in to get a book than to order coffee and a muffin.
How can the district, in all good conscience, discourage foot traffic and a sense of community by not allowing a pet to be tethered for a short period of time?
Ellen Sandberg
North Vancouver
Editor’s note: In an email response to our query, the district’s chief bylaw officer, Carol Walker, explains: “Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, particularly when they are unattended. This is an issue we receive complaints about. While we support and encourage owners taking their dogs for walks and outings, they should not leave them unattended. It is the law.”
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