It’s not uncommon to see our four-legged community members accompanying their owners on walks through our beautiful parks or around other parts of town. But how do we ensure Fido’s safety and the safety of others while enjoying an outing?

Whether you’re walking your dog in a park or in another public area, it’s important to keep him/her on a leash. We all know dogs have minds of their own at times, and unrestrained, could run into traffic and be struck by a vehicle. This could not only harm the dog, but could also cause an accident and injure the occupants of the vehicle. The City of Farmington has established a Municipal Code to address this concern. The code requires that dogs be on a leash of eight feet or less when in public. The length of the leash is important, as it provides the owner a better way to maintain control of the dog in the event something catches his/her attention. Keeping your dog on an appropriate leash, also reduces the chances of him/her biting someone or another animal. Dog’s that aren’t on leashes are considered to be “at large” and owners are subject to a citation (Farmington Municipal Code 6-4-1(2).  And this could also land Fido in doggie jail.

There is an exception to the leash law: dog parks. Owners may allow their dogs to exercise and play at designated city dog parks. Farmington’s designated dog parks are  Westland Park and Saddleback Park. Owners must remain present to provide supervision. We also ask that owners please use dog park etiquette and refrain from taking a dog that may not play well with others when off a leash.

The Farmington Police Department’s Animal Control Unit thanks the public for doing their part in helping to keep all our community members safe!