DUBUQUE, Iowa (KCRG) – Pets could be allowed at all Dubuque parks, pending the recommendation of the Dubuque Parks & Recreation Commission and City Council approval.
Leashed dogs and cats are permitted in most city parks, parkways, and trails, according to Dubuque’s Pets in Parks Ordinance. Pets are not allowed at Bunker Hill Golf Course, Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, Eagle Point Park, Marshall Park, Murphy Park, Veterans Memorial Plaza, structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and more.
The Parks & Recreation Commission is gathering public input before recommending potential changes to the city council in April.
The ordinance requires pet owners to keep their dogs or cats on a leash and pick up any waste, but people opposed to the changes worry the law will be ignored.
“I don’t think it’s that great of an idea,” says resident Sandy Ansel. “A lot of people don’t obey the rules and dogs would be off the lease and I don’t know how they would enforce that.”
Supporters say there are benefits to dog walking.
“Usually, when you meet people at Bergfeld Pond or places, the dogs are really nice. I spend more time. I remember people’s dogs more than I remember the people,” says resident Christa Claussen. “I think it might draw more people here because [Eagle Point Park] is so underutilized.”
Paul Schollmeyer wants to walk his pets at all Dubuque parks but notes responsible pet ownership is paramount.
“Socially, I think think it’s a great thing for the community. We just need to be responsible. There’s enough trash everywhere. We don’t need to continue adding to it,” says Schollmeyer. “It’s sort of excluding parts of people’s families and activities, which should be public to all.”
The City Council would need to approve any proposed modifications to the ordinance.
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