Cleveland Heights overturns 40 year ban on dogs in public parks

The city of Cleveland Heights overturned a forty year ban on dogs in city parks on February 19. They are beginning by allowing dogs in Cain Park as part of a six month pilot program. At the end of six months, they will evaluate whether to overturn the ban in all of the city’s parks. The City Council vote was unanimous.

There are specific restrictions for the pilot program.
Dogs will be allowed in Cain Park from April 15 through October 15, but will not be allowed in the park during events that draw a large crowd – such as the Cain Park Arts Festival and concerts. All dogs must wear collars and be on leashes (six feet or shorter – no retractables, please!)

• Any dog must be on a leash that is extended no farther than six feet and must wear a collar or harness of proper size and strength for the particular dog.
• Any dog must be under the control of a person who possesses physical strength and experience sufficient to exercise reasonable restraint and control of the dog.
• Any person bringing a dog into a public park shall promptly clean up waste from the dog and place it in provided receptacles.
• Any person bringing a dog into a public park shall confine the dog to paved pathways.
• Dog-walking shall be suspended during the Cain Park Arts Festival and other widely-attended events as determined by the city manager.

The pilot program was introduced by the Dog Project, and offshoot of the Cain Park Neighborhood Association.

RELATED:

Cleveland Heights votes on Dog Project proposal February 19
Dog parks subject of debate in greater Cleveland communities

The pilot program is a partnership between City Council, city staff and volunteer citizens. Dog waste stations will be located throughout the park with bags for cleaning up after pets.
There will be a Bag stocker volunteer orientation closer to the starting date. If you are interested, please contact chdogproject@gmail.com or call 440-478-6226.

There are also plans to launch the start of the pilot program with a celebratory event. Please visit the Dog Project website to stay informed.

NOTE: The dog in the photo is "Mort". He is urgent at Stark County Dog Pound, a kill shelter in Canton. If you are interested in him, please call: 330-451-2343.

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