Prince George's parks may be going to the dogs, following the public consultation on off-leash parks in the city.
On Monday the city's off leash advisory committee reported the results of its month-long consultation process. Committee chairperson Kathi Travers said there was strong support for an increased number of dog parks throughout the city.
"I'm thrilled to see the support," Travers said. "The people with the criticisms are a small, minute section."
Nearly 170 people filled out surveys and approximately 80 took part in the five open house sessions held in June.
Currently Moore's Meadow and Ginter's Meadow are off-leash parks. Of those surveyed, 91 per cent were in favour of maintaining their off-leash status.
In addition there was strong support for converting Wilson Park, the south end of Exhibition Park and Nechako Riverside Park into off-leash parks.
Currently the park along Domano Boulevard is an off-leash area, however there was little use or support for continuing off-leash status there.
The public also expressed a desire for clear rules for dog owners using off-leash areas and more pet waste receptacles, Travers said.
"The bottom line is... control. Pets have got to be controlled," she said. "We want to keep our parks safe for everybody."
Travers said the committee hopes to have its final recommendations before city council by October.
"What we're trying to do is make these parks throughout the community so it's not too far to walk to them," she said. "We're going to have the best dog parks in B.C."
The full report can be found online at http://princegeorge.ca.
