Fredericton, NB – The City of Fredericton has approved a bylaw amendment that will see dogs banned from municipally owned and operated sports / athletic fields, playgrounds and swimming areas.  The “dog free areas” will be clearly identified by signage, and will still allow dogs and their owners to use the rest of city parks, green spaces and trails.

“The intent of the bylaw amendment was never to ban dogs from city parks and trails,” said Coun. David Kelly, chair of the City’s Community Services Committee.  “The majority of dog owners in the city are very responsible.  This bylaw gives us the tools we need to protect our citizens and deal with problem areas.”

The bylaw amendment was first presented at a Council in Committee meeting on July 28, 2008 and addressed in an administrative report entitled “Animals on Sports Fields.”   Over time, City staff have received a number of complaints about dog feces on sport fields.

In addition to the mess that occurs when sports players or children on playgrounds slide through dog feces, an even greater concern is that animal feces and urine can transmit disease to people, possibly resulting in serious illness.  Similar “dog free areas” exist in other municipalities.  The bylaw does not apply to service dogs used by persons with disabilities.

Dogs in the City of Fredericton must be licensed and be on a leash when in public.  Dog owners must pick up after their pets.

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Media Contact:  Wayne Knorr, Communications, City of Fredericton, 506-460-2181.