Message received 25 June 2025 – via email.
I have heard that the Council may require dogs to be kept on leads in the Aquadrome. Also there may be a requirement for dogs to be kept on the lead elsewhere.
I am the custodian of a mini Schnauzer – my fourth. His youth and nature is such that I would always walk him on the lead beside a road but the great pleasure for both of us is when we are in an open space and he can be free of the lead and sniff, run, and mingle with other dogs at will.
Living on the Harefield Road the Aquadrome is in easy reach. If this proposal is passed, I shall have to drive elsewhere. Hopefully, the council will not choose to restrain dogs in all their open spaces, even so I shall then add to pollution (and this is not a ‘good’ thing).
My dogs are essential for my life. When we are on our daily walks, I meet neighbours and strangers and friends – my social life. Without a dog, I would stay indoors most of the time and as I have no family I, too, would have mental health problems – and that is no idle comment.
I imagine most other dog owners would agree with me.
I hope this is a matter where you can represent us dog owners to the Council.
RDRA response:
As a German Shepherd dog owner who walks at the aquadrome twice daily, I understand and sympathize with your concerns.
In my view, it is some dog owners, rather than their dogs, who require better training and information. Improved signage and information boards around the aquadrome would be beneficial.
It is natural for an animal to sniff other dogs as a form of introduction. However, some aggressive dogs should be kept on leads and, in certain cases, muzzled.
Implementing a single, blanket policy would be inappropriate. Additionally, how does the council plan to enforce this policy? It could lead to conflicts between dog owners and create an unpleasant, hostile environment.
I am willing to organize a resident’s forum to discuss this issue if there is interest.
