As a mom of three children, I spend a bit of time at the Westland Hills Park in Albany at the playground. At this park, there is also a dog park where dogs are allowed to be off their leashes and have a fun time. I do not own a dog so I do not go to the dog park.
This past week, there were four dogs off their leashes in the playground. The dogs belonged to three separate individuals who assured me that their dogs are nice. I politely mentioned the leash law and that we were at a playground for children. I was met with the attitude that, because the dogs were nice, they did not need to be leashed.
Two of my children are allergic to dogs. This should not be a concern for everyone around us; this is my concern. However, when I go to the playground with my children, I do not want to curb their playing because of dogs running around.
I would like to ask the owners of all dogs to please think of the children and families at the playground. I do not take my children to the dog park and let them run around bothering your dogs. Please, do not have your dogs run around in the play area.
Jennifer F. Steuer
Albany