But he doesn't WANT to wear a leash...." (whine) But this is the country...... (more whine)
Rules are important! Especially when they concern health and safety.

I love to hike in Palmer Park with my dog, but I hate to come around the corner NOT knowing what I'm gonna find.

This week it was an off leash Pit Bull/boxer (I think) mix that ran upon us....ok, he was probably going to say hello but Zeus doesn't take kindly to the uninvited greetings.
Closely behind him was a border collie (YES! Off leash and outta control) Behind them was the owner. The owner gives me the nasty LOOK l because now the dogs are fighting. I'm pretty certain it's just in a dog's nature to become frightened when an off leash dog (obviously has the advantage of flight) comes bounding up to startle.

Dogs wake up with the express purpose every morning with one important thing on the to-do list. Protect. And maybe sleep, eat and sleep some more is in there somewhere. It's a shame that people have to get so testy too when you ask them to please leash up their dogs. I mean, after all, I'm following the rules. They almost get violent with you because your dog defended you when theirs ran around recklessly. Oh, and speaking of rules...you can read it below.
There IS ONE for Colorado Springs...it's called an ordinance and that's actually a law although God help us, how in the world do you enforce it?


9.9.302: DOGS, DOMESTIC ANIMALS AT LARGE:
A. It is unlawful for any person to lead or allow to be loose any animal upon park premises; dogs, however, may be led or carried but not allowed loose. Dogs may be loose but under the control of the owner or keeper in those areas which are clearly marked by signs bearing the words, "Dogs Permitted Without Leash If Under Control". Nothing in this section shall be construed as permitting the running of dogs at large. All dogs in those areas where the animals are permitted without leashes shall be under control at all times.

B. In any dog recreation area designated by the Park Manager in which dogs are permitted without leashes, it is unlawful for any person:

1. To intentionally, knowingly or recklessly lead, bring or release any other type or species of animal into or upon the confined or fenced dog recreation area; or

2. To fail to obey any posted rules, regulations or guidelines for use of the dog recreation area. (Ord. 89-97; Ord. 01-42)

Now, where's that......"Squirrel?"