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Residents recount dog attacks and urge consequences during Bidwell Park public comment
Summary
During public comment, residents described several serious encounters with off-leash dogs, including a reported knockdown with a fractured rib; speakers urged fines, enforcement and clearer signage as the commission begins a multi-meeting review.
Several members of the public told the Bidwell Park and Playground Commission on Nov. 18 that they or people they know have been injured by off-leash dogs in Bidwell Park.
Willow DeJesus, a Park Pal volunteer, described multiple near-collisions while bicycling and walking and recounted that a friend was knocked down by a large dog: "My girlfriend actually could not breathe because it was such a big knockdown," DeJesus said, adding the friend sustained a fractured rib and a deep wound. She told commissioners neighbors had reported similar fears on Nextdoor and urged that illegal behavior carry consequences.
Denny Whiting, president of the Chico Equestrian Association, also spoke during public comment and warned that off-leash dogs pose hazards to riders. "I've run into many, many nice people who do have their dogs under control. But the ones that aren't... they're gonna do what they're gonna do in the park," Whiting said, endorsing better outreach and enforcement.
Speakers asked for clearer signage on where dogs are allowed, hours for off-leash areas, and who to contact when aggressive animals or owners are encountered. Commissioners and staff acknowledged the accounts and used the testimony to support directing staff to prepare signage and enforcement materials for a three-month follow-up.
