Safety concerns prompt Medicine Hat to revamp off-leash dog zones

There are also three newly designated unfenced spaces.

They include a section on the east side of Echo Dale Regional Park, a corridor along the Ranchlands and Parkview neighbourhoods, and a section of the Ross Glen natural area.

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(Image Credit: City of Medicine Hat)

Together, the five sites span 58 hectares of accessible land.

The change brings Medicine Hat’s off-leash park provision to roughly 8.5 hectares per 10,000 residents, a ratio the City says exceeds municipal averages across most Canadian jurisdictions.

Municipal officials initiated the policy shift following extensive public feedback.

Trail users reported a decline in visit frequency due to unpredictable encounters with unleashed pets, and confusion over zone boundaries. While engagement revealed that most pet owners act responsibly, residents shared accounts of severe, under-reported incidents involving unleashed dogs and vulnerable trail users, including children, wildlife, and individuals using mobility aids.

“We recognize that there will be mixed perspectives from residents on this decision, but the need to prioritize public safety is clear,” Parks and Recreation acting director Scott Richter said.

“We all take pride in our extensive network of trails, parks and open spaces woven throughout the community,” he added.

“These off-leash area changes are the most effective way to address critical issues and ensure these beautiful spaces are safe and welcoming for all to enjoy.”

The five selected sites, the City says, were chosen for their high visibility, wide-open layouts, and multiple access points, which minimize surprise encounters.

The City is installing new boundary markers throughout the network.

Any park or trail without explicit off-leash signage will require pets to remain leashed.

Residents can view site maps and detailed policy information at medicinehat.ca/offleash.

by Jesse Gill

Safety concerns prompt Medicine Hat to revamp off-leash dog zones

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