It’s hard to beat running through The Parklands in late fall. The humidity is non-existent, the bugs are gone, and many times you will have miles of trails all to yourself. While it is very tempting to think that your four-legged friend doesn’t need to be on a leash in these remote sections of the park, please continue to keep your pet on a leash at all times.

There are multiple solid reasons for our local leash laws, but one stands out in particular at this time of year – the deer rut. Deer are very active in the fall, and as much as we like to think our dogs are under control, millions of years of evolution have them hard-wired to pursue animals. If they see a deer or turkey, there’s a good chance they are going to chase it.  And if you are in the woods at this time of year in The Parklands, the odds of encountering a deer are extraordinarily high.

Deer encounters with dogs can lead to a series of unfortunate events including:

• causing stress to the animal being chased
• causing you to lose control of your pet
• and, because it is hunting season, could result in your animal leaving the park and entering private land where hunting may be occurring.

Speaking of hunting, this is a good reminder to you to stay within the boundaries of the park while visiting. Hunting is not permitted in the park, but many of our adjacent property owners are engaged in hunting activities this time of year.  Your way to stay safe (and help us keep great park/neighbor relations intact) is to make sure you stay within The Parklands. Our boundaries are clearly marked with signs. If you’re ever in doubt, stick to the trails. All trails stay safely within The Parklands property.

So, please, please, please be diligent in following the leash law, not only for the safety of our wildlife and other park guests, but also for the safety of you and your pet.

Sidenote: If you are in search of a place where you can let fido play off-leash for a bit, please consider becoming a member of the Louisville Dog Run Association, giving you access to The Barklands in Beckley Creek Park. More Info

Photo © Ted Wathen/Quadrant

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