PEI Humane Society says dogs not on leash an ongoing problem
Many let dogs run free despite fines of $100 - $1,000
Charlottetown officials say off-leash dogs are an ongoing problem.
The city has received several complaints recently from residents about dogs running freely at local parks.
Charlottetown hires the PEI Humane Society to enforce its dog bylaws, and the group confirms dogs off-leash are a common sight.
"People leave their dogs out, they're running around, we don't want to give you fines but when it happens over and over again, unfortunately we have to."
There's no getting around the rules; except for specific areas, dogs can't run free.
"The bylaw states quite explicitly that your dog is to be on leash at all times," said Mitchell Tweel, chair of parks and recreation for the city.
Fines for letting dogs off-leash range from $100 to $1,000.
The Humane Society say the number of fines it hands out varies from month to month, with the problem increasing as the weather gets warmer.
Currently, the dog park is closed for spring maintenance, but will re-open May 23.
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With files from Laura Meader