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Residents form dog‑park committee and urge fencing, waste stations and enforcement after off‑leash incidents
Summary
Residents including Deanna Dawson introduced a new Dog Park Committee and East Side resident Megan Leboudewin described being charged by an off‑leash dog; commenters requested perimeter fencing near playgrounds, dog‑waste stations and stronger enforcement during peak hours, and staff said they will follow up with ad hoc coordination and outreach.
Petaluma — At the start of the April 15 Recreation, Parks and Music Commission meeting, residents introduced a newly formed Dog Park Committee and urged action to address off‑leash safety near neighborhood playgrounds.
Deanna Dawson identified herself and two colleagues as members of a newly formed dog‑park committee and said they will coordinate with Parks & Rec and the fairgrounds ad hoc group to advocate for safe, accessible dog‑park options. "We have recommendations, and Drew is going to invite us to visit with the ad hoc group and also the fairgrounds group," Dawson said.
East Side resident Megan Leboudewin recounted an incident in which a Great Pyrenees ran out of a house and charged at her toddler in a stroller, biting the adult instead. She said the episode prompted parents to sign a petition she submitted to Parks & Rec and offered three possible measures: a small perimeter fence near playgrounds (potentially eligible for Measure M funding), dog‑waste stations along trails and better enforcement of existing leash laws during peak hours.
"After sharing my experience, several other mothers and caregivers have shared similar stories where children and mothers are being charged by off‑leash dogs," Leboudewin said, adding that many petition signers are dog owners themselves. She asked the commission to consider low‑cost, visible deterrents and education to make parks feel safe for families while preserving dog access.
Staff thanked speakers and said they will engage with the new committee and ad hoc groups to explore practical steps and longer‑term options. The commission did not take formal action at the meeting but acknowledged public safety concerns and requested follow‑up during project planning and park‑by‑park reviews.
(Reporting based on April 15 public comments to the commission.)
