Show Us Your Leash

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It's quite easy for dog owners to overlook the impact an off-leash dog can have on children, seniors, and other animals - including well behaved dogs and their law abiding owners - but the consequences can be disastrous. Off-leash dogs have been known to get caught in dangerous situations; hit by vehicles, falling through thin ice, run-ins with barbwire fences and fatal fights with wildlife. It shows respect for others when you keep your dog on a leash; it’s also the law to keep dogs under control and on a leash not over 15 feet long.

Some people are fearful of dogs. A loose dog may throw an elderly and/or disabled person off balance. And a loose dog can create havoc for parents with children negotiating strollers, bikes and scooters. These situations make it even more difficult to move quickly to block or avoid loose dogs from approaching. Everyone should be able to enjoy parks and trails without fearing dogs intentionally allowed off-leash. A resident recently shared with us that "even friendly dogs get tired, may be in pain, rehabbing from injury, or are simply not feeling up to meeting another dog at the moment." We invite you to 'Leash By Example' and share images of your furry (and leashed) friends. For inspiration, view the Police Department's 2019 Respect for the Law poster Contest Winner's submission titled 'Keep Your Dog on a Leash - It's the Law' by John Eargle (Kindergarten).

Pawsitivity Patrol

In June of 2021, the Erie Code Enforcement Officer and Police Officers will be on the lookout for off-leash dogs. Don't get 'nipped' but rather be 'high-paw'd' and receive a special treat!

Post a photo of your dog in the community, following the rules, with their leash on and you will be eligible for a chance to win the 'Bark Box' filled with treats and toys. For more info, visit: https://www.erieco.gov/1873/Pawsitivity-Patrol.


It's quite easy for dog owners to overlook the impact an off-leash dog can have on children, seniors, and other animals - including well behaved dogs and their law abiding owners - but the consequences can be disastrous. Off-leash dogs have been known to get caught in dangerous situations; hit by vehicles, falling through thin ice, run-ins with barbwire fences and fatal fights with wildlife. It shows respect for others when you keep your dog on a leash; it’s also the law to keep dogs under control and on a leash not over 15 feet long.

Some people are fearful of dogs. A loose dog may throw an elderly and/or disabled person off balance. And a loose dog can create havoc for parents with children negotiating strollers, bikes and scooters. These situations make it even more difficult to move quickly to block or avoid loose dogs from approaching. Everyone should be able to enjoy parks and trails without fearing dogs intentionally allowed off-leash. A resident recently shared with us that "even friendly dogs get tired, may be in pain, rehabbing from injury, or are simply not feeling up to meeting another dog at the moment." We invite you to 'Leash By Example' and share images of your furry (and leashed) friends. For inspiration, view the Police Department's 2019 Respect for the Law poster Contest Winner's submission titled 'Keep Your Dog on a Leash - It's the Law' by John Eargle (Kindergarten).

Pawsitivity Patrol

In June of 2021, the Erie Code Enforcement Officer and Police Officers will be on the lookout for off-leash dogs. Don't get 'nipped' but rather be 'high-paw'd' and receive a special treat!

Post a photo of your dog in the community, following the rules, with their leash on and you will be eligible for a chance to win the 'Bark Box' filled with treats and toys. For more info, visit: https://www.erieco.gov/1873/Pawsitivity-Patrol.


Page last updated: 30 Mar 2022, 12:15 PM