We are interested in the creation of an official, off-leash dog park at Oriole Park in Toronto, ON.

An off-leash area can benefit the community in many ways: dog parks keep the animals away from children and people who dont like them, they help keep other public spaces free of feces, they promote responsible pet ownership, they promote public health and safety since the dogs who use the park must be licensed and vaccinated.

Dog parks provide a tool for enforcing dog control laws because well-socialized dogs are less aggressive towards people and other dogs. For elderly and disabled people, a dog park is often the only accessible place to bring their companions to socialize. Dog parks also foster community feeling -- dog park users get to know each other well. For attracting newcomers to the Deer Park area, and sustaining the younger demographic, dog parks are desirable neighborhood amenities. As for the desired location for the designated off-leash area, groups of dogs and owners can revitalize little-used and/or shady areas, deterring crime and unlawful behavior.

Dog parks are the answer to dogs running loose in public areas! Off-leash dog parks provide a place for dogs to socialize with each other, getting the physical and mental exercise they need to be good companions and good neighbors. Dog parks are not a fad; they are being created across Canada and the U.S. every month due to the combined efforts of community groups and local governments.

It's time that dog owners and their dogs have a place where they can get the off-leash exercise they need to be happy, healthy members of the community.

Friends of Oriole Park (friendsoforiolepark.com)  is pleased to announce the date for our meeting with Councillor Josh Matlow to talk about the pressing need for a dog park in Oriole Park is Monday, October 15, 2012.

Sign our petition and lend your voice to this worthy cause.