My dogs have been attacked on the street by an off-leash dog. I’ve seen it happen to another dog in an off-leash park – a german shepherd attacking a teacup yorkie. It’s frustrating for those of us who are responsible owners.

The best thing to do is to teach your guy all the rules of dog engagement, and if he’s really little, always pick him up when larger dogs are around. It’s unfortunate, but the reality.

Thanks for sharing your story, hopefully it helps open some eyes.

I am NOT an animal person. I don’t go to the parks much, but if I did, I’d feel exactly the same way as you.

Sadly, in Vancouver, dogs come before people quite frequently.

I am reasonably OK with the dogs as long as (1) they stay in the field and well away from the playground and (2) owners call and leash them if any children decide to use the field. However, those two things rarely happen. People bring their off-leash dogs through the playground. People send their 10-year-old and the big dog to the park, without even a leash on hand. My 4-year-old has been jumped on multiple times. If I hear, “Oh, he’s really nice, don’t worry,” one more time I may just scream.

Dogs need a place to go to play, I get it. But when in doubt the kids come first. Period.