Dogs in the park reduce wildlife populations especially small mammals and birds. Their excrement and urination leave toxins that can be fatal to much of the wildlife. When I hike if a person passes me on average it will be another 10-15 min before wildlife reappears, a person with a dog 45-60 min depending on the number and sizes of the dogs. The park is not conducive to the additional predators brought in by humans. Dogs are prey for the wolves and bears and can even be killed by the many poisonous snakes and large Bucks protecting their herd. Many people who come into the park do not realize it has many wid animals that could confuse their pets with prey. I am always trying to educate but the NPS also needs to enforce the leash law.

Several people I have spoken to about this in the park have chosen to stop bring dogs into the park and for that I am grateful.

Kindest Thoughts and Wishes,
Lee

Ps I sure hope the dog park opens soon!

I think part of the problem is that Hot Springs AR has not had an off leash dog park. People who lived in town did not have a place to go, so they were using the National Park. I saw a website for a Bark Park in your area & it said opening soon. So, I am not sure if it is open yet. I am not sure if this will help with the off leash issue completely, but it would help. As a person who loves to travel & hike with my dog, I would not like to see them banned from the park. I agree that they should be on leash though. There should be fines for owners having dogs off leash & for them not picking up after their dogs. No one should have to avoid trails, etc. because of someone else’s negligence with their dog.Some people are highly allergic to dogs & they would not be able to enjoy the park with the current state of affairs. And you cannot tell me that some tourists have not lost their dog(s) in the park before by having them off leash. It also seems to be a public education issue. People will keep doing what they have always done unless educated as to why they should change. I hope I am not offending you with my comments. I am always an advocate for people, wildlife & dogs finding ways to live & work together in harmony.
Your friend,
Cindy Puzio

We need to think about not only our own footprint in habitat, but also the footprint of our domesticated animals, and understand why it’s important to be mindful of how we impose on other living communities.

Cheers,

Lee Hall