Metro Vancouver authorities are assuring dog owners that there are no plans to alter leash rules on the well-loved Pacific Spirit Park trails. This comes in response to numerous concerns raised after a public proposal for new rules was made at a recent Parks Committee meeting.

The rule change proposed that all dogs should be leashed on all southern trails of West 16th Avenue, a suggestion made by a UBC Faculty of Medicine assistant professor. She reported permanent knee damage following an incident involving a loose dog in 2023.

Richard Wallis, Metro Vancouver park operations supervisor, clarified that the proposal is not being considered at the moment. However, the district is reviewing its dog management program due to a significant number of public complaints.

He noted that there were hundreds of comments and concerns about bylaws in recent years. “We are going to review the incidents, public complaints, and bylaw concerns, aiming to ensure we are doing our best to maintain public safety,” Wallis said.

About two-thirds of the Pacific Spirit Park’s 55 km of trails are currently labeled as “leash optional.” These trails are used by pedestrians, cyclists, horses, and dog owners. Wallis acknowledged potential conflicts due to the narrow trails and the park’s popularity, which sees over four million visitors annually. The number of dogs visiting the park has also increased since the COVID-19 pandemic.

In some parts of the park, leash-optional and leash-required trails intersect, which could pose further conflict. Wallis emphasized the need for people to pay attention to the trail they are on. He also hinted at the possibility of reviewing the current arrangement to simplify it.

Dog owners interviewed in the park expressed their disapproval of reducing off-leash areas. They believe the current signage could be clearer, but reducing off-leash trails would only discourage dog owners from visiting the park.

Metro Vancouver is currently gathering feedback and plans to launch a pilot project this spring to enhance safety and address public concerns.