Many residents of the islands love their dogs and are responsible about managing their pets in public areas.

However, I would like to say “thank you” to the park rangers for taking seriously the need to enforce the leash laws.

Owners walking dogs without leashes, or who cannot hold their pet on the leash, inhibit the ability of others to freely walk the trails — in fact making the trails an unfriendly place for many who have been bitten or attacked by dogs and are consequently avoidant of unrestrained dogs in the back of pickups or on a trail.

I personally know of children who have had their faces scarred by ‘friendly’ dogs in our neighborhoods.

On the island it may seem like an unpopular view, but I appreciate the consideration of the park service in protecting all those who use the trails.

Peggy Butler

San Juan Island