HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-20-24 Public Comment - M. Langill - Enforcement of Leash Laws_ 200+ Signatures and GrowingFrom:Meghan L
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Enforcement of Leash Laws: 200+ Signatures and Growing
Date:Friday, August 16, 2024 7:42:16 AM
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Meghan Langill
3138 Annie St
Bozeman, MT
MeghanLangill@gmail.com
August 16th, 2024
Bozeman City Officials
City Hall
121 N. Rouse Ave.Bozeman, MT 59715
Dear Bozeman City Officials,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deep concern about the
lack of enforcement of our city’s leash laws, an issue that has recently gained
significant attention within our community. As a resident of Bozeman, I believe that
this matter requires immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of allresidents, as well as our pets.
Recently, a petition was created to address this very issue, gathering support from
numerous residents who share my concerns. The petition, which can be found [here](https://www.change.org/Bozeman-leash-law), highlights the growing frustrations and
incidents related to unleashed dogs in our community. This includes encounters that
have resulted in injuries to both people and pets, disruptions in public spaces, and a
general sense of unease for those who wish to enjoy Bozeman's outdoor areassafely.
Bonnie stated: “Back in March my 5 lb Yorkie (on leash) was attacked and savagely
mauled by a much larger dog being allowed to run loose. My little guy spent more
than four hours - and $1200.00 - in the emergency clinic being put back together.
Thank God he was not crippled!! It just makes my blood boil to see people letting their
dogs run loose and think nothing of it. If one dog will attack another dog, what is to
keep him from attacking a child?”
Alex stated: “Some of us have kids, we shouldn’t have to put their safety at risk
because your dog is “friendly”. I don’t know that.”
Willow added: “There are so many reasons for dogs to be leashed in public areas.
I’ve had numerous incidents where my dog and my toddler daughter were put in
dangerous situations by unleashed dogs.”
Many more comments can be found on the petition located [here]
(https://www.change.org/Bozeman-leash-law).
While Bozeman is known for its love of the outdoors and our strong sense of
community, it is imperative that we balance this with the responsibility to protect each
other. The enforcement of leash laws is a simple yet crucial measure that can prevent
accidents, reduce conflicts, and enhance the overall quality of life for all who live here.
I urge you, the city officials, to take this petition seriously and to prioritize theenforcement of our existing leash laws. Doing so would demonstrate a commitment to
the safety and harmony of our community. I am confident that with enhanced
enforcement, we can create a safer environment for everyone, ensuring that
Bozeman remains a welcoming and enjoyable place for all.
Thank you for your time and consideration of this urgent matter. I look forward to
seeing positive changes in our community’s approach to this issue.
Sincerely,
Meghan Langill