Warning/reminder for dog owners: Sign seen at Alki Beach; city announces 'emphasis patrols'

cjboffoli April 18, 2017 (12:08 pm)

I think the punctuation police needs to write someone a ticket for reckless, unnecessary use of an apostrophe.

emcat8 April 18, 2017 (1:08 pm)

They could make even more money off the bizarre use of quotation marks.
- Jethro Marx April 18, 2017 (11:45 pm)
  
  I’m going to assume the fined party paid said fine with counterfeit bills, or, as we call it in the underworld, “money.”
Kadoo April 18, 2017 (2:40 pm)
- Sara April 18, 2017 (4:05 pm)
  
  You guys made me laugh. Thank you! !!!!!””””
Kathleen April 19, 2017 (8:37 am)

Amen.

heylady April 18, 2017 (12:09 pm)

Are there any lawful places for our dogs to swim?

McBride April 18, 2017 (12:34 pm)

There’s a couple. The one that leaps immediately to mind is the Sand Point off-leash area. I think Burien has a beach location.
Mr. J April 18, 2017 (12:40 pm)

Magnuson Park has a dog run that leads to a beach area on Lake Washington, there’s dogs swimming out there all the time.
Kristina April 18, 2017 (12:42 pm)

There is water access at Magnuson Off Leash Park, Marymoor Off Leash Park, and Luther Burbank Off Leash Park (on Mercer Island, closest to West Seattle). There’s an even bigger area in Edmonds, but that’s pretty far.
Joe Szilagyi April 18, 2017 (12:45 pm)

Magnuson Park, Luthor Park in Mercer Island, your pool.
Wild One April 18, 2017 (12:46 pm)

The Magnuson dog park has beach access.
Cole.Eckerman April 19, 2017 (3:04 pm)

The only legal off-leash beach in Seattle is in the Magnuson off-leash area.

Cycleman April 18, 2017 (12:11 pm)

“No warning” please there are sign posted down there for years to keep dogs off of the beach. And good thing too, when your kids are playing in the sand and dig up a dog poo it’s not pretty.

PG April 18, 2017 (12:16 pm)

I hope animal control is also at Lincoln Park!

Chuck April 18, 2017 (12:23 pm)

I predict this thread is about to go truly off-leash… Here goes. Hooray for Animal Control for actually doing their dang jobs! And a big Waaaaaaaaaah! to the sign writer. Serves you right. Your entitled attitude is typical of all that is wrong in Seattle, and everywhere. Your dog is NOT entitled to run all over Alki Beach (or Lincoln Park, or Lowman), chasing birds, pooping, and possibly even scaring off (or otherwise harming) baby seals. I only wish that Animal Control would be MUCH more active in their efforts. I spot off-leash dogs every single time I walk Lincoln, and almost always on the beach. It’s not the pet’s fault. People are just plain rude, and wrong-headed. I hope they all get tickets, and the sooner the better. This is one time when I’m actually on the side of the city.

Dave April 18, 2017 (1:01 pm)

This person is upset because they got a ticket for breaking the law? They probably wanted a warning vs a ticket. If Animal Control gave out warnings to everyone who said ” they didn’t know” then they’d probably never give out any actual tickets. No dog signs are posted at the beach. Ironic that they made their own sign but didn’t notice or ignored signs put up by the city saying no dogs. Lol. Glad Animal Control is writing tickets, they could do it every day at Alki and Lincoln Park.
sam-c April 18, 2017 (4:36 pm)

I’m with Chuck; I am glad they are enforcing it for once!

(and I have a dog, who likes to swim…. at Magnuson…)
Soccer1 April 18, 2017 (11:13 pm)

I agree with you Chuck. It’s the law and it needs to be followed. I am personally tired of the entitled dog owners in Seattle!
greta April 19, 2017 (12:53 pm)

Amen brother Chuck! I’m over the obliviousness of pet owners in Seattle. Not everyone likes dogs nor should anyone have to accommodate negligent owners who act so entitled giving off the vibe that their dog can do no wrong. It’s gross. These pet owners are not living a life of integrity. Be a responsible pet owner. These animals are your responsibility. Don’t make them look bad cause you’re irresponsible.
Mary Sweeney April 20, 2017 (10:26 am)

Thank you, Chuck! I totally agree; my thoughts exactly. I have a dog and have always had dogs. I love dogs. It truly ticks me off to see people with their dogs running off leash on the beach barking and lunging at the herons. I saw one guy cheering his dog on as a heron hovered over head after it was chased by the dog when minding it’s own business trying to fish. I went over to talk to him and he was pretty nice about it, just oblivious. I chased another couple down the street once when their huge off leash dogs were chasing shore birds. Their response “sheesh, it’s just birds”. Wow. Just birds. Others let their unleashed dogs run up and get into fights with other dogs before their owner reaches them. They run after skaters and bicyclists. Others throw their dog poop into Puget Sound instead of picking it up. Wow, thanks. Come on, dog-owners, be responsible! Boo-hoo to the sign writer! Cheers to animal control for finally enforcing something!
Katy April 20, 2017 (6:59 pm)

Thank you for this!

KBear April 18, 2017 (12:24 pm)

If the city were trying to raise revenue through animal control citations, there would be more than 2 officers for the whole city. (If only it were so!)

doglover April 18, 2017 (12:42 pm)

For being known as “dog friendly,” West Seattle is the least dog friendly city I’ve lived in across the U.S.

Greg April 18, 2017 (12:54 pm)

We love dogs, but salt water beaches which are frequently by federally protected marine species are not the right place for them.
Norton April 18, 2017 (1:03 pm)

Walking your dog on public property is a privilege, not a right. Perhaps you should question your entitled mentality?
Coldheart Craig April 18, 2017 (1:11 pm)

Your sentiment does not reflect responsible dog owners or beach lovers and I’d hate to imagine non-dog owners lumping me in with you.
JanS April 18, 2017 (1:16 pm)

oh, good grief…I’m a cat lover, and even I like dogs. But….the law is the law…abide by it, and you’ll have no problems. Leashes are not expensive. No one cares if you think your pup is under voice control. It isn’t. So leash up when out walking your furbaby. And have a great week :)
newnative April 18, 2017 (1:34 pm)

West Seattle is a neighborhood, not a city. Seattle is the most dog-centric place I have ever lived. Dogs in restaurants, bars, on the bus, in strollers, in dog parks and in people parks, school yards, you name it. If you think this isn’t dog-friendly enough, then, wow.
Nerdle April 18, 2017 (9:14 pm)

I lived in Texas and Pennsylvania. West Seattle is shockingly dog friendly by comparison to either. If it’s less dog friendly than the rest of Seattle, that’s even more amazing. Off leash dogs in non-off-leash areas is actually irresponsible and the opposite of dog friendly. It makes it difficult and sometimes impossible for responsible dog owners who are using leashes to walk their dogs in public areas. Not every dog gets along with every other dog, and mine has already been bitten by an off-leash dog in a public park. That was 100% the off-leash dog owner’s fault. Everyone thinks their dog is the exception, but the fact is, one day there will be a dog they want to meet that could bite them, or something irresistible across the street.

So so on behalf of responsible dog owners everywhere, I want to thank the police and animal control for making it possible for my dogs to walk along Alki.
Dog Guy April 18, 2017 (9:43 pm)

Note to those who feel compelled to let dogs off leash around others: Your dog is
happy just to be outside with you–yes, even on a leash. They will still
like it if you don’t let them run wild.
SWinWS April 19, 2017 (11:46 am)

West Seattle (and Seattle, in general) are very dog friendly–and at the same time attempting to be wildlife friendly. I think ignorant people refuse to accept the responsibility and the beauty of living by water that actually contains living creatures. I am a dog owner and frequent Lincoln Park, it is very common to see dog owners let there dogs off-leash on those beaches (and in the interior sections of the park, as well)–despite the educational signs about seals and wildlife next to signs prohibiting dogs on the beach. It is time for enforcement because they clearly feel like its “not my dog” that is the problem and/or they just assume its okay since everyone else it doing it.

SJoy April 18, 2017 (12:45 pm)

Ohhhh, I’m so sorry that some entitled…. person received a ticket for having their dog on the beach and off a leash. Welcome to the real world where people should follow the rules so that everybody can enjoy their time out with their dogs.

I am unable to walk my dogs most places because entitled yahoos like to let their dogs off their leash and they run up to my dogs, who don’t appreciate it. It’s a safety thing – for all of us.

Chris Stripinis April 18, 2017 (12:46 pm)

And why is “money” in quotes? Is that a euphemism?

Norton April 18, 2017 (12:49 pm)

A dog killed a baby seal at Lincoln Park last year, but it was a good dog who would never hurt anything. Just like Ted Bundy.

Dave April 18, 2017 (1:13 pm)

Yeah, lol. Dogs have also killed white geese at Lincoln Park.
chemist April 18, 2017 (1:20 pm)

I don’t remember WSB covering anything like that with a seal, just the goose and punctures consistent with a dog.
- WSB April 18, 2017 (1:32 pm)
  
  https://westseattleblog.com/2016/08/west-seattle-wildlife-seal-pup-dies-after-apparent-dog-attack/
  - chemist April 18, 2017 (1:36 pm)
    
    So Constallation Park, not Lincoln.
    
    http://www.blubberblog.org/files/c301699604bf181c22136b7134735518-701.html
Ryan April 19, 2017 (2:48 pm)

Yes, the seals need to be protected so they can eat more salmon, and they can bomb them at the locks.
- WSB April 19, 2017 (3:04 pm)
  
  The seals that turn up on the beach are usually harbor seals, not the California sea lions you are thinking of. Most of harbor seals’ diet is made up of other types of fish per research such as http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01423/

JRR April 18, 2017 (12:55 pm)

While I enjoy the sign for its oddball punctuation and font kerning, I am even more thrilled to see some enforcement of the no-dogs-on-beaches rule. I have two dogs, too. Seriously, people, the rules apply to you, too.

Kadoo April 18, 2017 (2:43 pm)

Amen!
Sara April 18, 2017 (4:21 pm)

I feel this way, too. I’m so tired the entitled few who seem to think their dog is never going to be an issue. I love animals. I love dogs. I have an awesome dog. Who stays on leash. And I’m really grateful for the majority of other owners who also leash their dogs.

old timer April 18, 2017 (1:01 pm)

Solstice park could be a great revenue source should the City choose to harvest there.

RF April 18, 2017 (1:14 pm)

Where is the grammar obsessed Roman guard when you need him?

WSFam April 18, 2017 (1:20 pm)

We have had our leashed dog picked up by an off leash dog and bitten by another off leash dog. Our son has been chased by an off leash dog at the Chinese garden and now tends to fear most dogs. I applaud the officers and wish there were 20 more.

Peter April 18, 2017 (1:35 pm)

I agree. I’ve been bitten by an off-leash dog. They need to be restrained. Unfortunately that doesn’t stop every dog owner from being so sure their dog would never hurt anyone.
- Dave April 18, 2017 (5:27 pm)
  
  I have been bitten too.

Peter April 18, 2017 (1:20 pm)

Just another self-entitled malcontent who thinks they law shouldn’t apply to him. Too bad so sad.

Seattlite April 18, 2017 (1:36 pm)

About one month ago I was on an interior path in Lincoln Park taking photos. I felt like something was stirring in an otherwise quiet area. When I looked up from my camera, two unleashed pit bulls were racing toward me. A couple was walking a medium distance from the pitbulls. The guy did call out to the dogs but they kept running toward me. I froze. The dog owners had the leashes in their hands and finally got the dogs to stop. I asked them to please leash their dogs which they did. And, I let them know that Seattle has a leash law. The point is that I have no idea what a dog’s temperament is especially run they are running as a fast speed toward you. Everyone should obey the leash law for safety.

Help April 18, 2017 (2:20 pm)

YIKES!

Luckily, you weren’t a tiny child that turned and ran, triggering chase instinct.
- Lamont April 19, 2017 (1:00 pm)
  
  Its not just kids running and chase instincts.
  
  A lawful dog owner on a leash could encounter those two off-leash pitbulls. The leashed dog is at a considerable disadvantage in that situation and even relatively well-behaved animals will lash out defensively, and the pitbulls, no matter how “well-behaved” may very well behave aggressively in return.
  
  That is a recipe for a dog fight.
  
  The fault for that fight will be entirely on the owner of the two offleash pitbulls. I have no doubt, however, that the owner will be full of excuses about how their animals were saints, while the on-leash dog somehow provoked them and the leashed dogs owner somehow caused it all by reacting emotionally to 2 pitbulls attacking her dog.
  
  They really need a test for dog owners to ensure that people understand that they’re animals and not furry humans and that the owner’s are capable of adult reasoning skills.

AmandaK(H) April 18, 2017 (1:46 pm)

That sign is hilarious.

miws April 18, 2017 (2:01 pm)

Why is it, when laws are enforced (and adequately “advertised” by the way of straightforward signage) and tickets are handed out, it’s a revenue grab, and why is it when people support enforcement of leash laws, and “keep dogs off the beach” laws, they are dog-haters?

I happen to love dogs and other pets, but also love the non-pet animals that share our community, and want to see them protected, as well as the general public, and the leashed pets that are taking part in the enjoyment of our public spaces.

Mike

Alan April 18, 2017 (2:09 pm)

That is too funny. Now I’ll be on the lookout for signs written by this person when they receive parking or speeding tickets. Maybe they are friends with Eric Galanti and thought the “I forgot” excuse would work for them.

I’m tired of people telling me about how friendly their dog is after it has jumped on me. It is still going to require a change of underwear, thank you. You knew, but I didn’t.

skeeter April 18, 2017 (2:14 pm)

I am delighted to see the leash laws enforced. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Ian Page-Echols April 18, 2017 (3:42 pm)

Agreed. I love dogs, but I don’t want a random stranger’s dog jumping up on me and getting me slobbery and dirty. I’ve been bitten before, and ever since then, I don’t trust dogs that I don’t know.

Word choice is important April 18, 2017 (2:17 pm)

I am not sure “entitled” is the right word choice for off-leash scofflaws. One dictionary defines entitled as “believing oneself to be inherently deserving of privileges or special treatment.” I think it is simply not following the rules for the sake of convenience or not believing the rules should be in place.

To me it is similar to texting while driving or exceeding the speed limit. I do the latter but not the former. I think texting while driving is far too dangerous to risk. However, I believe that the times I choosen to exceed the speed limit poses little risk. I don’t believe I deserve special treatment when I am exceeding the speed limit. I don’t feel entitled to it. It is simply a risk I am willing to take and I take advantage of limited enforcement.

I don’t think distracted drivers (e.g., texting, streaming video, eating) feel entitled to do so. I think they make a big error of judgement and don’t think about the risk they are trying to manage. However, they are also taking advantage of limited enforcement despite the rising number of accidents and lives lost due to distracted driving . According to the Center for Disease Control’s latest statistics:

1) In 2013, 3,154 people were killed in crashes involving a distracted driver, compared to 3,328 in 2012.

2) In 2013, 424,000 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving a distracted driver, an almost 10% increase since 2011.

3) In 2013, nearly one in five crashes (18%) in which someone was injured involved distracted driving.1

As for owners of off-leash dogs, it is a risk they take. If a dog off leash approaches me I will do whatever I can to protect my safety, the health of the dog be damned. It is a risk for their pet similar to off-leash cats being eaten by local coyotes.

I agree that is a funny sign.

DirkDigs April 18, 2017 (2:31 pm)

Great, now that I have proof that law enforcement actually ENFORCES laws in the area, can you please come and enforce the speed limit in my neighborhood (Spokane and 44th & 45th Ave SW)?

I love how they have the radar device going up admiral but couldn’t give less of a crap about speed limits where children actually walk the sidewalks…

Jeannie April 18, 2017 (2:36 pm)

I wouldn’t mind if the city posted LARGER signs than the ones they already have. That way, the entitled dog owners who defy the law can’t use the excuse “Oh, I didn’t see the sign.” I know that Animal Control has issued fines to several people this year. They might be short-staffed, but they’ll be on the lookout. I appreciate their work! Want to avoid getting fined? Simply keep your dog ON LEASH and OFF THE BEACH.

P.S. I love dogs and I think the underused Morgan Park would be perfect for off-leash – simply put a fence around it so the dogs don’t get out. Or, for heaven’s sake, use a leash. Your dog will be perfectly happy.

And, yes, whoever wrote the sign is wrong about this being a revenue source, but the awful punctuation proves he or she isn’t the smartest tool in the shed.

Joan April 18, 2017 (2:43 pm)

Yea! Yes, please enforce the law. Too many off-leash dogs in parks and on beaches. Please respect the law. It’s there for a reason. We have wildlife in parks and near the water. We have people who are genuinely frightened of dogs. We have some dogs who do not behave off leash. If everyone follows the rules, there will be no issues and we can all enjoy the outdoors equally.

T Rex April 18, 2017 (2:59 pm)

PEOPLE!! Dogs are pack animals! When they are in packs there will always be a dominant dog, some more extreme than others which is how other dogs get bitten. They can also go into what I call “I forgot my name and why are you running after me mode” to where they seem to forget everything you have taught them. I for one HATE dog parks for this reason alone.

But I hate to see off leash dogs in parks and on beaches even more. Besides putting other dogs in danger, kids could get hurt as well. And the dog itself. And of course the poor baby seals.

For the person who made this sign, get over yourself. I’m sure this was not the first time you let your dog run on the beach, its just the first time you got caught. And I for one am glad you did.

Seattle is one of the most dog friendly places I have lived in and I love that idea. But they are animals and they need directions from their humans when they are in public. Kinda like your kids.

AFerr April 18, 2017 (3:03 pm)

Just a heads up… The $54 ticket is for a dog off leash. The fine for a dog in a beach area (sand/water) is $500!! Read the signs!

chemist April 18, 2017 (5:09 pm)

https://www.municode.com/library/wa/seattle/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT18PARE_CH18.12PACO_SUBCHAPTER_IIIAN_18.12.080ANRULAPR

18.12.080 – Animals running at large prohibited.[3]

A.

.. it is unlawful for any person to allow or permit any dog or other pet to run at large in any park, or to permit any dog or other pet with or without a leash, …, to enter any public beach, swimming or wading area, pond, fountain, stream, organized athletics area or designated children’s play area. The Superintendent may ban dogs and other pets, or a specific dog or other pet, from areas of any park where he or she determines the same may be a nuisance.

18.12.085 – Violation—Civil penalties.

A.

Violation of Section 18.12.080 shall be a civil infraction as contemplated by RCW 7.80.120 subject to the following penalties:

Initial Infraction. Imposition of a monetary penalty of Fifty Dollars ($50);
- HappyOnAlki April 18, 2017 (6:30 pm)
  
  Chemist, there’s a pic of the $500 fine sign down thread at 4:21 — And yay for that!
- Dave April 18, 2017 (10:23 pm)
  
  I’ve posted this so many times over the years. Wish there was a way to download it to people’s brains.

anonyme April 18, 2017 (3:10 pm)

Dear Word Choice: not only is your reasoning bizarre, but I suggest you look up the word “choosen” in that dictionary of yours.

I’m thrilled that someone finally got a ticket for an off-leash dog. If the city could make more revenue by busting scofflaws (speeders, texters, and off-leashers included) instead of raising my property taxes, I’d be even more pleased. Rake it in!

Word choice is important April 18, 2017 (3:40 pm)

Chosen

>past participle of choose.

adjective

having been selected as the best or most appropriate.

Chris C April 18, 2017 (3:17 pm)

I am a dog adopter and I love my dog. I never let her on the beach or playgrounds, etc. I obey all the rules. On Saturday I was out for a run with my dog and noticed a large pile of poop right in the middle of the path along the water at Lincoln Park. Someone had stepped in it. It was a mess, but I did my best to clean it up because I feel responsible for any negligence committed by other dog people. I felt very self-conscious about doing this because other people happening along probably thought I was somehow responsible, but I felt it was the right thing to do, in spite of my embarrassment.

Fellow dog lovers, please don’t do this. You do a disservice to yourself and all of us who care for dogs when you misbehave like this. Please keep off the beaches except where allowed (or, possibly, very remote areas with no people) and please clean up after your pups no matter where you are. And, please, pick up what you find in case someone misses one or doesn’t care enough to do what they are required to do.

WSB April 18, 2017 (3:19 pm)

Just added to the story: Three hours after we published this, the city just sent a news release about emphasis patrols on saltwater beaches. So the as-yet-unidentified citation recipient/signmaker was apparently ahead of the trend … TR

Out for a Walk April 18, 2017 (3:46 pm)

The fine should be significantly higher. A lot higher. And, yes I see dogs in the water on most occasions when I walk Lincoln Park.

WSB April 18, 2017 (3:48 pm)

Just added to the story: Stats on how many citations have been issued in the past year or so, including Alki/Lincoln Park breakout.

Mary D April 18, 2017 (3:47 pm)

I am so happy to see this, both the enforcement of the laws and all the neighbors who support it. I run up and down Beach Dr and Alki and I see off-leash, on-beach, and both, all the time. Every day. And I’ve never seen any enforcement. I’m not a dog fan, but I don’t hate them – I just don’t wish to be barked at or bitten while running. It’s a runner’s nightmare, because you can’t reason with a dog, who may or may not be under the owner’s voice control. Thank you Seattle police!

anonyme April 18, 2017 (3:50 pm)

While they’re at it, how about issuing a fine against the sign maker for littering the beach?

flimflam April 18, 2017 (3:59 pm)

why even offer a warning, WSB? let the scofflaws learn the hard way. this is, in my opinion, such an easy way for the city to collect money. I know its not cheap to do enforcement, but I imagine it would be pretty easy to pay for a few more officers by simply rotating them around to all the beaches/parks.

WSB April 18, 2017 (4:28 pm)

I didn’t say anything about a warning, unless you mean, why publish this? Because it’s interesting. Turned out to be timely, too!
- flimflam April 18, 2017 (4:32 pm)
  
  well, the post header does say “warning/reminder for…”.

Wes C. Addle April 18, 2017 (4:01 pm)

They should’ve ticketed the person for an illegal sign too ;)
@Anonyme beat me to it! Stupid browser caching.

Morgan Junction Dad April 19, 2017 (9:20 am)

Yeah, I can see how the word “warning” in the headline makes it sound like the headline writer doesn’t agree with the rule.
- WSB April 19, 2017 (9:32 am)
  
  Really? With the word ‘reminder’ right next to it? The story was originally about the sign, whose creator clearly meant it as some kind of alert. And for the record, we have no dog(s) and never have … nothing against them but I’m a lifelong cat person. 100 percent indoor, too. – TR

Alan April 18, 2017 (4:21 pm)

I have to admit that my first thought was someone was trying to scare dog owners. I can still see the sign either way.

For those that feel they need a warning; here are “your” warnings.

Double Dub Resident April 18, 2017 (4:26 pm)

How about law officers patrolling and enforcing cruising and (the ridiculously) loud music ordinances

Mike April 18, 2017 (5:50 pm)

Those people fight back, we don’t want to put in effort in this city. Path of least resistance.

FJ April 18, 2017 (4:53 pm)

Oh no!! Dog owners in WS are suppose to follow the rules?!?! However will they survive ?!

Just Wondering April 18, 2017 (4:54 pm)

I seem to remember a pack of dogs that got into exhibits at Woodland Park and killed some animals.

The article said that even a poodle can become a killer running in a pack!

datamuse April 19, 2017 (11:42 pm)

Poodles were bred for hunting for many many years so it’s not surprising at all.

KC April 18, 2017 (5:36 pm)

Good! I’m a dog owner and a frequent Alki and Lincoln Park user. So tired of seeing so many dogs running on/off leash at the public WS beaches. At the risk of ‘sign pollution’ there should be a few more. They are spread too far apart along the walking paths. Maybe post a few in the two parking lots at Lincoln Park as well.

Mike April 18, 2017 (5:48 pm)

If they’d ticket people for littering, that would pay for all the funds they’d ever need. Granted dog owners are more likely to pay a fee that 99% of those that litter.

Kravitz April 18, 2017 (5:50 pm)

Absolutely THRILLED that Animal Control is in the area issuing citations for off-leash offenders. There are countless signs, and as a responsible dog owner and walker, it drives me insane to have other peoples’ pets (friendly or not) approach me and my 7-month-old pup when we’re trying to learn better leash manners. I watched some idiot’s dog race around on the beach chasing gulls, then promptly run up the stairs and into the lanes of traffic on Beach Drive last week. It took the owner at least 3 minutes to amble up to find his dog that other folks had grabbed and held until he was reunited. Did the guy put him on leash then? Nope. He proceeded to yell at the dog and spank him for disobeying. It made me sick. Furthermore, think about the young kids playing on the beach and the seal pups that rest there. I wish the fines were heavier for people to learn the tough lessons on being responsible. Kudos to Animal Control, and cry me a river, person who obviously doesn’t know how to read the many signs posted on the beach (or create their own, for that matter). *sigh*

TM April 18, 2017 (5:57 pm)

How about an off-leash area in Lincoln Park?

Mustyouwreckeverything April 18, 2017 (11:13 pm)

No. How about no off leash dogs destroying our last tiny clump of old growth forest?

oh wait – that’s already the law..

Marianne April 18, 2017 (6:25 pm)

Good

Question Authority April 18, 2017 (7:05 pm)

Public Service Reminder – In addition to all the beaches and associated parks there are also ” No Unleashed Dogs Allowed” on any of the covered drinking water reservoirs in WS and the rest of the city. Such as Myrtle on 35th or West Seattle/WestCrest off of Roxbury. Just because the latter is next to a dog park does not give anyone the supposed right to run your dog’s unleashed, and I have no sympathy for anyone who can’t read or ignores the sign and gets a ticket running their fur baby loose. No excuse, there are signs at all locations.

traintheowners April 18, 2017 (7:18 pm)

I am a dog owner and animal lover who used to frequent dog parks until my dog and I were attacked by someone who took their newly adopted dog to one. Hello? A newly adopted dog might also need exercise but as a responsible dog owner, it’s important you know what your new dog’s temperament is before you expose it to other dogs, humans, and possibly children also present at dog parks. I digress.

Plain and simple, beaches are for people. Some beaches in the Puget Sound are designated for dogs as well, but a trained human will be able to read, will abide by the rules and will understand that some dog owners do not appreciate these folks breaking the rules and giving the rest of us a bad name.

I walk down by Alki and in the vicinity of Harbor Ave everyday. I cannot tell you how often I have seen off leash dogs while my dog and I walk by. I have seen people with their dogs off leash on Alki beach on weekend mornings and it irks me that they blithely disregard the posted signs. I’ve also seen people and read numerous accounts regarding off leash frustrations throughout Lincoln Park. None of this is new and every so often, we know animal control beefs up its patrols and people get made examples of: They get ticketed, they cry and whine about it, but the signs have been up and they’ve been disregarded by others so these people think it’s their right to take their dogs where the law clearly states they shouldn’t.

Good for animal control for enforcing the law. If you choose to disregard the posted signs and get caught, shame on you. You might need more training than the animals.

CleeHolm April 18, 2017 (7:23 pm)

Can I add another place where I see unleashed dogs all the time? The baseball park near Alki and the big play field near the elementary school by Alki. I don’t walk my dog near those places anymore because dogs are running loose more times than not. My dog is leashed and is threatened when another dog comes running up to her. She will bite. I’ve been known to see an off-leash dog and actually start running the other way because we don’t want a scene. And most of the time, the unleashed dog comes running after us. This is not a good situation for anyone. When I yell at the dog owner for not having their dog on a leash, I’m usually met with a very passive-aggressive, “Yes, maam, I know…” It shouldn’t be that way. PLEASE leash your dogs, people.

Soccer1 April 18, 2017 (11:19 pm)

You are right! And they run right into the whale tail park, right up to our kids!
WS aMom April 19, 2017 (9:28 am)

I have called the city to report off-leash dogs on the baseball field ay Alki. After wandering around the phone system, it took 25 minutes to reach a human. I told them they could come every day just before school starts and gets out and they could make plenty of money. Never saw them there. :-(
Kathleen April 20, 2017 (7:16 am)

Also on the football field at Madison middle school. There are posted “no dog” signs, yet people use the school as an off-leash area pretty much every evening and on weekends. I liked to run on the track with my kids, but we’re not comfortable running near unleashed dogs so we had to stop going there for exercise. It’s so frustrating when people think they are above the law.

TheKing April 18, 2017 (8:03 pm)

While I am neutral on this subject I find it interesting the city, county and state are selectively enforcing laws. If you drive downtown there are certain areas that don’t really look like our environment is a concern. At all.

Bike Guy April 18, 2017 (8:08 pm)

I commute by bike along Alki and Harbor Avenue two or three times a week and have done so for a decade. Only rarely (i.e., once to my recollection) have I encountered a dog off-leash on the bike path. In that case, I had to slow down and swerve to avoid the dog, prompting an apology from the owner, which I did not accept (“That dog should be on a leash”). On the other hand, it is rare for me, when riding along Alki beach, summer, fall, winter or spring, *not* to see a dog owner and Rover walking along the water’s edge, Rover frolicking in the water, retrieving a stick, etc. It’s a blatant disregard of the rules in a situation, unlike the bike path/sidewalk, where there is no meaningful social pressure on the dog owner to follow the rules. I’m tempted to get off the bike and walk across the sand to confront them, but I’m not that much of a goody-two-shoes. I am very pleased to learn that citations are being issued.

Jeannie April 18, 2017 (8:17 pm)

Be sure Animal Control’s phone number is readily available on your smartphone. The number is 206-386-7387. They are good people with a tough job – they have to deal with dog-owners with that entitled attitude, who can sometimes be hostile.

Mike April 18, 2017 (10:03 pm)

All it takes is the person getting ticketed to take it to a judge and it gets thrown out. The city won’t waste money fighting it as it costs more to do so. The best thing is for people to leash their dogs in areas they should be on leash and for people who are hell bent on off-leash dogs go to the pound and potentially be euthanized (yes, that actually happens) to take the stick out and throw it for a dog to retrieve instead.
- Birdy April 19, 2017 (7:40 am)
  
  Incorrect, Mike. The ticketcan be contested, but the officer will come testify in court. No ticket will be “thrown out” just because someone tries to contest. Just leash your dogs, stay off the beach and be done with it.

G Man April 18, 2017 (9:53 pm)

Instead of giving out tickets why can’t the stupid city hire real cops to patrol areas like westcrest which is the only off leash dog park and nobody goes there because they are guaranteed to eventually have their car broken into, including my wife’s car she went there maybe a dozen times is all, I’d rather pay a $54 ticket than a $300 window replacement and feel violated, simple math. Cops could care less about car breakins which is why there are so many now, but dog on the beach, OMG! Unfortunately Seattle is not dog friendly and never will be. How does San Diego have a dog beach and not us? millions more people visit those beaches and there is marine life also everywhere

John April 19, 2017 (8:21 am)

GMan ignores the fact that car break-ins occur at all of our parking lots for parks, Lincoln Park lots often having break-ins reported.
Double Dub Resident April 19, 2017 (10:44 am)

I believe the term is “couldn’t care less” and instead of griping about the police, gripe to the city officials who set the policies for crimes to which the officers must adhere or face reprimand

Jeannie April 18, 2017 (11:06 pm)

G Man, we DO have a dog beach – a very nice one at Magnuson Park. Here’s an easy way to avoid a fine of up to $500 (are you willing to pay that, too?): LEASH YOUR DOG

IF YOUR DOG ABSOLUTELY MUST GO TO A BEACH (and is that really necessary?), take your furry friend to Magnuson Park.

There are plenty of legal off-leash areas around town, too.

I agree that Westcrest can be very dangerous – I wouldn’t take my dog there. Contact your local police precinct and raise a fuss. Seriously.

Have you asked your dog is he or she really needs to be off-leash?

G Man April 19, 2017 (5:54 am)

Magnasun? That’s only 45 mins away on a weekday since there is always traffic, I don’t need to take my dog to the beach, I’m pointing out that there are NO legit dog parks in West Seattle and yes local precinct has been contacted, they could give a crap
ClayZ April 19, 2017 (11:13 am)

I find it interesting that Westcrest park should have vandalism and theft problems considering that it is right next to the police stables. I guess its just horses and keepers, no proper police. The upper parking lot is in the woods, which doesn’t help.
- WSB April 19, 2017 (11:21 am)
  
  Car prowling is a problem in many areas, regardless of what they’re close to, whether there are people around – and not just parks, but also supermarkets, gyms … even if you don’t leave anything in your car or if you think whatever’s in it is hidden, cars seem to be prowled on spec (we’ve been victims of it too, with nothing in the car to steal but a phone cord, and we learned THAT lesson!), and the criminals appear to be really good at doing it without much notice.

Elle Nell April 18, 2017 (11:30 pm)

HellZ yeA!! Leash your dog just like the rest of us- 🐶

Just saw the perfect example of the folks who do this on the news… “seems like we’re living in a police state.”

WTF- are you kidding me dude?? Pull your head out and leash your mastiff at Golden Gardens..

What with this new, know-it-all IGNORANCE!

Too much

– GO Animal Control!!

Elle Nell April 18, 2017 (11:34 pm)

Oh and G- man… we surely won’t be mad at you if you’d like to take your dog back to San Diego to that great off leash beach 😁
We don’t want millions of people on our beaches!!

gigelsmith April 19, 2017 (6:35 am)

I know this thread is getting large but I just had to chime in.

To the A-hole that thinks it’s ok to let your 3 dalmations run around off leash at the Tennis Courts across from Lincoln Park. Your dogs attacked my little dog that was on a leash as we walked by and scared the crap out of my 4 year old while they flopped my dog around in their teeth. Not only did you take off in a hurry, but you didn’t even check to see if our dog was ok. Even my daughter knew that was wrong. Shame on you.

My dog was ok after an expensive vet visit and a limp for two weeks, so you owe me $160 dollars when I finally run into you again.

So hopefully you read this or one of your friends does and tells you.

It’s not ok to run your dogs around off leash, I don’t care if you thought the gate to the tennis courts were closed, it’s not an off leash area and your aggressive dogs should not ever be off leash.

A nice neighbour took your licensce plate number as you sped off and we have reported you to animal control for aggresive dogs and hopefully they will be on the lookout for you.

I really hope you’re the next idiot to get fined.

Rr April 19, 2017 (7:54 pm)

Was this person driving a light blue Ford explorer per chance?
- gigelsmith April 20, 2017 (6:56 am)
  
  Hey @Rr I don’t really remember the color or make sorry :(
  
  But how many guys in West Seattle have 3 Dalmations?
  
  I was too busy checking to see that my dog was ok and comforting my daughter. By the time we gathered our senses the guy had already sped off in his car, but as I mentioned a neighbor got his license plate and I look for him and his dogs every time I pass the tennis courts.
  - Rr April 20, 2017 (11:15 am)
    
    I’ll see if WSB can put us in touch directly.
    - Alan April 20, 2017 (11:30 am)
      
      If she has the license plate number, shouldn’t it be the police that are putting her in touch?
    - Rr April 20, 2017 (11:40 am)
      
      I’d give my info directly to animal control only. Just need case number info etc.
    - gigelsmith April 20, 2017 (2:35 pm)
      
      Case #4292925
      
      Cell phone of animal control officer. Sorry can’t remember his name :)
      
      206-402-1939
      
      Office line 206-386-7387 extension 7
- Rr April 20, 2017 (4:06 pm)
  
  Got it.

Cinebelle April 19, 2017 (7:57 am)

I’m a dog owner and am all about being responsible and minding all the laws. But Animal Control goes for months or even years without enforcing certain laws and regulations, and then seems to want to make up for lost time by handing out 2, 3 or 4 tickets at a time now. I know they have a tough job, and I know we all want our dogs safe and beaches and marine wildlife protected — it just seems like enforcement is so capricious. You can’t totally blame someone for being a little bewildered, if he’s walked his dog for years off leash in, say, Schmitz park, thinking that’s the one area that is truly off leash in West Seattle, and then to be ticketed and fined one random day.

We all want our dogs and the rest of nature and our neighbors to coexist peacefully. We just could use a little more consistency in expectations.

Kathy April 19, 2017 (10:08 am)

Lame. Citizens are responsible to know the laws and obey them, whether or not they are enforced. I could understand confusion of an out of town visitor.
Lamont April 19, 2017 (12:52 pm)

Enforcement of laws is usually random. You can blow through stop signs for weeks and months before you “randomly” wind up with a “capricious” ticket for breaking the law when an officer sees you and pulls you over. The fact that you weren’t ticketed the other 99 times you broke the law isn’t an excuse.
LF April 20, 2017 (2:28 pm)

Animal control enforces the laws all the time, they just may be at other locations doing it. You can’t expect the handful of officers they have to be at every park and every beach all of the time. They go where they can, when they can. They also have to deal with calls about animal cruelty and lost and injured animals and neighbors complaining about each other’s animals. And now that the temperatures are warming up, they’ll be dealing with calls about all the idiots leaving their animals in hot cars. Doesn’t mean they wouldn’t enforce the leash/beach laws if they could be there at the time.

Kathleen April 19, 2017 (8:47 am)

This isn’t complicated. Leash laws protect the animals who live on and near the beach, pedestrians, and dogs themselves. Fine away to keep the area safe and clean and the animals protected.

Also, can the sign writer please be fined $50 for every unnecessary apostrophe?

Sunuva April 19, 2017 (9:25 am)

Oh my, that sign is hilarious! You’ll get no sympathy from me on this issue. If you break the laws regarding pets in our public areas, you deserve to pay the fines. We also need enforcement at local play fields and playgrounds. Almost every time I go to the playground, somebody will be there with their dog. An excited or unaware child that gets in an unfamiliar dog’s immediate space can quickly turn scary.

I think a big part of the problem is lack of public awareness of the laws. For far too long, lack of enforcement and no public education outreach has led to thousands of dog owners blissfully unaware of the laws regarding dogs in public in Seattle. Some education outreach along with the enforcement would help a lot!

Last, I really don’t understand people’s need to take their dog EVERYWHERE they go. I love my dog, but am perfectly happy to leave him at home when I go out. IMO, A short list of places that dogs don’t belong (whether illegal or not); Grocery Stores, Restaurants, Playgrounds, Festivals, Concerts, Play fields, Beaches, or anywhere off leash in public areas.

sam-c April 20, 2017 (10:40 am)

I know it won’t be a popular opinion, but i would add ‘street festivals’ to your list. There’s always so many dogs, and thankfully, usually leashed. But, they are always get tangled with eachother, snapping at eachother, getting so hot, tripping people. Maybe bring dogs to street festivals during the less crowded evening times.
(well, you do have festivals, so maybe you already included it! :) ) (like west seattle summer fest)
- Sunuva April 21, 2017 (11:31 am)
  
  Yes, that is exactly what I meant by festivals in my comment. West Seattle Summer Fest is a perfect example. Not only is it an annoyance to people, it isn’t good for the dogs either. They get nervous, they get stepped on, they get their feet burned on the hot asphalt, get snapped at by other dogs, get dehydrated in the heat, etc. It would be much healthier to leave them at home!

Community Member April 19, 2017 (9:45 am)

As Alan posted 4:21pm 4/18, the signs on the beaches say $500 fine.

But as Chemist posted 5:09pm 4/18, the municipal code section 18.12 PARKS CODE talks about dogs and beaches and doesn’t mention $500. That section mentions a $50 fine, that increases to $150 for repeat infractions.

But the signs say $500. I wondered where the $500 exists in the city code. @Chemist, I think maybe it is section 18.30 ENFORCEMENT AGAINST UNAUTHORIZED USE OF PARKS PROPERTY. That section doesn’t mention dogs at all, but does have $500 fines that can be imposed for breaking the Parks code.

That’s a bit of a reach, though. I’m curious, does anyone else have a specific link to wordage where the $500 fine is established in the city code? (Not just a park sign).

WSB April 19, 2017 (10:07 am)

I am still waiting to hear back from SAS on that – sent them a followup question late yesterday as soon as somebody brought it up, as it is decidedly not on the page to which I linked, and via Google so far I’ve only found anecdotal mentions, not any official link. – TR
Lamont April 19, 2017 (1:04 pm)

Given the two different ways to fix this problem, I’d say leave the sign and fix the law so that its $500

AlkiAve April 19, 2017 (9:54 am)

I saw the guy who put this sign up. He’s the same middle-aged man who walks on the path almost daily with his little Yorkie who is never leashed. The dog seems well behaved enough but you let your dog walk without a leash long enough you’re bound to get a slap on the wrist for it… I mean I’ve seen this guy countless times and each time I’m terrified his little dog will stroll right into incoming traffic.

WSB April 19, 2017 (10:09 am)

When did you see him put it up?
- Erik April 19, 2017 (11:18 pm)
  
  He was pounding the sign into the sand just after Noon on Monday.
Kathy April 19, 2017 (12:24 pm)

You mean Brewski and his dad? It always scares me to see him running loose with all that car and bike traffic on Alki Ave. I guess his dad assumes he is too smart to get run over. Certainly Brewski is too smart to use gratuitous apostrophes.
Alki Alkie April 19, 2017 (7:41 pm)

I have seen this guy so many times. His dog is usually 100 feet from him. And this is not an exaggeration. To add to the offense, he is always yelling for the poor thing (from across the beach). Couldn’t happen to a better guy. I hope he gets a ticket every day.

Becky April 19, 2017 (10:06 am)

Are dogs allowed on the sidewalks and other paved areas at the top of the beach? Is the limitation just on getting them into the sand or water? Thanks!

KM April 19, 2017 (11:09 am)

Yes, leashed dogs are allowed on the sidewalk up above the beach, just not on the sand/shore.

JoB April 19, 2017 (10:47 am)

i am glad to see that the majority of the posts agree that anyone who is fined for walking their dog off leash or for letting their dog run loose.. or not.. on the beach should suck it up, pay their fine and stop breaking the law.
Every afternoon i take my now elderly dog out for a short ride to look for a park to stop for a very short walk.
Every afternoon i drive by several without stopping because there is an unleashed dog in the park.
This is true of our city parks, our neighboring city parks, our country parks and even our state parks.. all posted with leash required signs.
if fines are what it is going to take to allow people like me who obey the law to walk in our parks with our dogs.. then i am all for it.

and yes.. i pick up poo too.. though it is evident on every walk that some people think that law doesn’t apply to them either.

Shannon Flora April 19, 2017 (10:59 am)

As a dog owner I applaud them for doing their jobs. People that let their dogs off leash make it hard on those of us who follow the rules. Making matters worse many dogs who are ON leash get wigged out or nervous with dogs that are off leash running around. I hope they will also consider patrolling the area just outside the off leash part of Westcrest. There are always entitled owners letting their dogs run free there.

pupsarebest April 19, 2017 (1:08 pm)

As a dog owner who actually follows and respects the laws regarding leashing/picking up after my pet, I applaud and encourage this “crackdown”.

I have absolutely NO sympathy for anyone cited for these infractions.

Between the unambiguous signage and responsible dog owners attempting to politely let scofflaws know the law, no one can claim ignorance of these laws.

What they can righfully claim is arrogance.

JB April 19, 2017 (2:50 pm)

Well it seems the sign maker got his wish: dog owners have been warned. This sign got more attention than the $500 fine for dogs on the beach signs (which I agree with). I have lived in W. Seattle for 25 years and here’s the real problem: increased density without the foresight of accommodation. So we see more condo owners who are allowed pets but no parking. More speeding, more running of stop signs (especially around schools), more pedestrians hit in crosswalks, more car and home break-ins, and California Ave. is now rush hour all the time. Where is the enforcement of these laws? Where are more traffic lights? And where are more dog parks? I will not take my dog to Westcrest Park because it’s not safe there. Magnuson and Edmonds are an hour away, each way.

puzzled April 19, 2017 (3:11 pm)

Q13 had a reporter on Alki this morning. They showed a middle aged man just coming off the beach with 2 large dogs. He wouldn’t go on camera but told the reporter that he goes early to avoid being hassled by the seal sitters. He did know it was against the law but didn’t care. The noon news on KIRO interviewed a young couple at Golden Gardens with their off leash dog. The man said “only a police state” would ticket people with off leash dogs and that he had “no intention” of leashing his dog. I gotta ask: how did pet owners get so uncaring????

chemist April 19, 2017 (4:40 pm)

I haven’t seen that Q13 report, but I did see this with a couple giving some push-back on Kiro7 with credit to West Seattle Blog for this story/sign.

http://www.kiro7.com/video?videoId=513947770&videoVersion=1.0

I’m pretty sure that the NOAA protection act does have rules about harassing the seals and disturbing their behavior, but it doesn’t give an absolute legal reservation of a space in the absence of a seal. It’s a delicate overstep leaving barricades up in the name of a seal pup that appears injured when it has been seen on shore, but I’m fine with it. We just don’t want this to descend into something closer to that “Children’s Pool/This American Life” story that was recently re-run and how nasty it got with seal sitters there.
- WSB April 19, 2017 (4:57 pm)
  
  Unlike the usual SOP of TV stations, they contacted us late last night and asked permission to use the photo (guess the sign was gone by the time everyone flocked over to try to get their own photos – we haven’t been to Alki today), which we granted as long as we were credited. – TR
datamuse April 19, 2017 (11:37 pm)

I want to know if that guy was behind the door when they were teaching about police states in school. Because, come on, now.

bmc April 19, 2017 (3:47 pm)

Finally! Now keep them off school grounds!

Micmul April 19, 2017 (5:41 pm)

We need more enforcement of the leash laws and especially the no dogs on the beach law. Like others, my leashed pup has been set upon by an off leash dog. I have seen countless dogs on Alki beach chasing sea birds and crapping in the sand. Why do SPD officers ignore this violation when they witness it and rely only on animal control to enforce? It is clearly a safety issue and animal control clearly does not have enough staff. Handing out doggie tickets is beneath them? Is there a jurisdiction problem? This thread would indicate there is public support for stronger enforcement. Please SPD, do your job.

WSB April 19, 2017 (6:16 pm)

Regarding the $500 fine that’s come up – I did get this reply today from Kara Main-Hester at Seattle Animal Shelter: ” It took some sleuthing, but the Ordinance that is referenced on the sign is 106615. You can find it here: http://clerk.seattle.gov/~legislativeItems/Ordinances/Ord_106615.pdf . It was passed in 1977, and we are doing some research to determine if that $500 fine in Section 17 is still in effect as the code has been amended many times since then. That’s the best I can do for now though we are following up with a couple departments to see about that penalty.”

chemist April 19, 2017 (8:57 pm)

So, section 17 / penalties makes it clear that civil fines associated will be less than $500. The signage about dogs on the beach at Lowman and North Lincoln Park used the .080 statute and said up to $150, at least as of Tuesday.

Sho'nuff April 19, 2017 (8:39 pm)

I can’t believe that someone actually enforced the rules for a change. I just wish I could have seen it so I could have enjoyed every second of it. Every single time I go to a beach, park, or playfield there is some entitled, self-absorbed dog owner letting their dog or dogs run off-leash all over the place with no regard for the rules or other people. I went to Golden Gardens on Saturday and I couldn’t believe the sheer numbers of off-leash dogs. I hope that this enforcement and ticketing becomes a new trend. Next maybe QFC will actually enforce its policy of no pets in the store. They pretty much ignore all the jerks who feel that they have to walk their animal around a grocery store. I would love for some sort of health inspector to catch them when they have 2 or 3 dogs wandering through the store, which is a pretty common occurrence.

SueY April 20, 2017 (7:18 am)

It’s gotten so bad that a few Safeways I’ve been in have big signs near the entrances saying SERVICE ANIMALS – YES, PETS – NO (I’m paraphrasing). That didn’t seem to stop the guy with the Boston Terrier IN THE SHOPPING CART next to me though :-( Dog owners in this city are the most narcissistic, self-entitled SOBs.

Christine April 19, 2017 (10:15 pm)

In case our neighboring dog owners at the unofficial dog park at Fairmount Park read this thread, every time you let your dogs off leash my kids are too scared to play there anymore and we have to head home. It’s a sports field and playground. It is supposed to be enjoyed by kids, not your off leash dog. At least once a week a dog charges at us. If you want to bring your dog out, we are happy to meet him or her. We like dogs. But we don’t know them as well as you and need them to be on a leash at the park. Thanks!

DL April 20, 2017 (12:23 pm)

Glad (and sorry) to hear it’s not just me! My kids developed a dog phobia after being charged or even knocked down many times by dogs bigger than them at Fairmount Park. We have had to leave as well. Disappointing when kids can’t enjoy areas designated for kids.

Christine April 19, 2017 (10:26 pm)

Vancouver’s Stanley Park has a $2000 fine and not even one dog was off leash on a super busy weekend day.

School parent April 20, 2017 (8:22 am)

Yes, and Stanley park has TWO well-labeled off-leash areas just outside of the entrance to the park. Downtown Vancouver alone has SEVEN off-leash areas, and the city has about 30 in total, including six or seven with beach access. While as a responsible dog-owner I have no problem with enforcing leash laws, this city could certainly do better by employing both the carrot AND the stick as Vancouver does. We are woefully underserved by off-leash areas, which explains (though does not excuse) why many dog-owners allow their dogs to run off-leash. For example, there are plenty of ways to fence off areas in Lincoln Park for an off-leash area without “destroying the old growth forest.” There is, in fact, room for all of us (adults, kids, and dogs), and it is just as entitled to say “Lincoln Park is only for me” as it is to suggest sharing it with space for dogs to get the exercise that so many of them need.

ClayZ April 20, 2017 (9:13 am)

That’s pretty close to one response per problem dog.

JB April 20, 2017 (9:33 am)

More off-leash parks, yes that is a solution. With water access. Dogs need exercise and socialization. Last time I was at Westcrest, the water fountain for the dogs wasn’t even working. And someone’s car was broken into.

Lahteesha April 20, 2017 (1:25 pm)

OMG why do so many of you worry about the way this person spells, punctuates… you know we all can’t be as smart as you!

ANN Schumann April 20, 2017 (2:34 pm)

Love to see them enforcing the law. Wish there was enough funding to keep this going all summer long. I see people letting their dog poop when the tide is out and not picking it up. Come on people kids play here. And the poor dogs that the volleyball players bring to the beach and let them sit in the hot sun all day…….breaks my heart. No water……be kind your pet would be happier at home.

WSGirl April 20, 2017 (4:14 pm)

There are more dogs per capita in this city than children. Why do they keep building new parks for kids and NOTHING for dogs? ONE legal place for dogs to swim in the ENTIRE city?! I’m not saying its okay to break the law, but give dog owners some better options!

anonyme April 20, 2017 (4:42 pm)

WSGIRL, you do realize that most cities do not have beaches, nor any body of water in which dogs can swim, aside from your backyard pool – right? Dogs being able to swim is neither a right nor a biological necessity.

JB April 21, 2017 (10:47 am)

Being able to swim may not be a biological necessity, but it makes dogs better pets and citizens. We are surrounded by water, which the dogs can’t access. As someone pointed out, Vancouver has 30 off-leash dog parks compared to our 8. That’s facing the reality of more dog owners in the city and addressing the need.

Neighbor April 21, 2017 (6:41 am)

The sign is a wonderful combination of anti-gubberment, semi-literacy, and self-victimization. You usually have to go to Enumclaw to see something like that.

Leashing your dog isn’t a police state action, it’s common sense. Something that is increasingly rare.

Josh April 21, 2017 (8:24 pm)

I have a quick question, wondering if anyone knows the answer- I was at Lincoln Park where the public beach borders the houses (private beach); saw several home owners with their dogs playing on the beach tonight (which is awesome)!

I’m sure it’s legal and their right as property owners? But doesn’t that contradict the argument about poo pollution and bothering seals? It’s weird how it seems if you are rich enough to own a waterfront home it’s okay, but if you live elsewhere it’s not okay :(

Community Member April 23, 2017 (3:00 pm)

The Marine Mammal Protection Act says that people can’t let their dogs bother seals. And letting feces go into the water would violate some clean water act. Hopefully Seal Sitters or others file appropriate reports if home-owners are allowing dogs to harass seals.

I think the housing density on the beach is low enough that the poo-impact of resident dogs is small, compared to the potential poo-impact of non-resident dogs who would be taken to the public beaches if allowed.