11/04/2025
🐾 Responsible Pet Ownership in Our Community
Many Oak Ridges residents have reached out with concerns about off-leash dogs in neighbourhood parks, sports fields, and trails, especially in areas like Brickworks Park, Fountainbleu Park, Temperanceville Park, and Humber Flats Trail. These situations can pose safety risks and disrupt shared spaces we all enjoy.
👉 Leash Up for Safety. It’s the Law.
Dogs must be leashed at all times unless they’re in a fenced yard or designated off-leash park. This keeps our parks safe, clean, and welcoming for everyone, including those who may feel uneasy around dogs.
Richmond Hill currently offers two designated off-leash areas:
🐕 Phyllis Rawlinson Park
🐕 Tower Hill Dog Park
🌳 Looking Ahead: Off-Leash Options in Oak Ridges
Many Oak Ridges residents have asked for more local spaces where dogs can run freely. I completely understand, and I agree that our growing community deserves accessible, well-maintained off-leash options.
Off-leash areas are a priority in Richmond Hill’s Parks Plan, and staff are reviewing potential sites, including in Oak Ridges. I’ll continue advocating for our area to be part of that future. Finding the right spot means balancing the needs of pet owners, nearby residents, and our natural environment, but I’m committed to making it happen and will keep you updated as planning moves forward.
📞 To report concerns about off-leash dogs:
Vaughan Animal Services – [email protected] | 905-832-2281
Bylaw questions – [email protected] | 905-771-0198
Let’s all do our part to keep our community safe, respectful, and welcoming for everyone, two-legged and four-legged alike! 💚
More info: https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/living-here/responsible-pet-ownership.aspx
