Written by Jessica Adams (Education Program Coordinator)
Part 2: Signs of Human Presence
This past fall, during one of the first school visits to the trails, we paused at an intersection to explore and observe. While keeping an eye on students and listening to their excited exchanges, I noticed two walkers approaching with an off-leash dog.
Thankfully, I had time to approach and politely ask that they put their dog on a leash. I explained that there was a group of children ahead and that we ask all dogs remain leashed on our trails. I always feel awkward in these situations—like I’m reluctantly playing the role of trail police—but the awkwardness quickly lifted when one of the students leaned over and quietly asked, “Didn’t they see the rules when they arrived at the park?”
Her comment made me laugh, but it also got me thinking about our relationship with our four-legged companions—and with the natural spaces we share. Dogs on trails bring joy to many, while for others, their presence can be a source of discomfort. People also differ in how they view dogs in outdoor spaces and the responsibilities that come with bringing them along.
Some trail networks restrict dogs entirely. Others—like ours—welcome them, provided they remain on leash. This isn’t about being unfriendly to dog lovers. It’s about balancing access with conservation and making sure all visitors, human and non-human, can enjoy these areas safely and respectfully.
This third article in our “Common Nature Do’s and Don’ts” series continues the conversation about trail guidelines and their purpose. With more people (and pets) heading into nature, reflecting on the “why” behind the rules helps us all become more thoughtful trail users—and better stewards of the ecosystems we love.
Surprise Encounters
Some aspects of leash guidelines are fairly intuitive—safety, for instance. Off-leash dogs face increased risks, including porcupines, ticks, larger wildlife, or encounters with other dogs. Consequences can range from mildly inconvenient to dangerous. A curious pup can land itself in trouble quickly. Leashing helps reduce that risk.
It’s also about the experience of others. While I enjoy meeting a happy dog on the trail, it’s different when one bounds toward me with no owner in sight. And I’m a dog lover! I always think of others who might not be—especially those who are nervous or afraid. Everyone deserves to feel safe on the trail, and not everyone interprets canine enthusiasm the same way.
As part of our education program, we often guide school groups along these trails. At the start of each outing, I go over the guidelines and remind students that when we see a dog, we give it space and say hello from afar. I explain how meeting a familiar dog one-on-one is very different from encountering an unfamiliar one while surrounded by twenty excited children. Even the calmest dog can feel overwhelmed or react unpredictably. And as our educational programs grow, so will the number of student groups in these woods. Keeping dogs leashed is a simple way to support everyone’s safety—two-legged and four-legged alike.
The Conservation Piece
Even when everyone stays on the trail, just passing through a natural area has an effect. The goal isn’t to eliminate our impact—that’s not possible—but to be aware of it and reduce it where we can. Keeping dogs on leash is one of the easiest ways to do that.
Wildlife in these forests are always assessing their surroundings for danger. To them, even the gentlest dog is a predator. A dog running off-trail, barking, or simply moving quickly through the underbrush can disturb wildlife, interrupt feeding or nesting, or cause an animal to flee. Even without direct contact, the scent dogs leave behind can alter animal behaviour.
These disruptions cost energy animals need for survival—especially in spring and early summer when many are raising young. While one moment might seem small, repeated disturbances can take a toll, particularly for species already facing pressure.
By keeping dogs on trail and on leash, we limit their reach and help protect local ecosystems. It’s a small act with a big ripple effect.
The Scoop on Poop
We also can’t talk about dogs on trails without talking about poop. While it may seem like dog waste is no different from wildlife scat, the reality is more complicated.
Dogs have a diet rich in processed foods and proteins that don’t belong in forest ecosystems. Their feces can carry pathogens and parasites harmful to wildlife. They also add excess nitrogen and phosphorus, which can disrupt soil chemistry and plant growth.
From an educator’s perspective, it’s much more exciting for kids to find signs of native wildlife: fox tracks, deer scat, maybe even a feather or a bit of fur. Dog poop? Not quite the same learning moment—especially when it ends up on a boot.
A Shared Responsibility
When we walk with our dogs on leash and clean up after them, we’re doing more than following park rules. We’re recognizing that our presence has an impact and choosing to reduce it. We’re helping create safer spaces for others. We’re protecting wildlife habitats. And we’re setting a positive example—for kids, fellow walkers, and other dog owners.
To summarize, by being a thoughtful dog owner, we:
- Respect the safety and comfort of all trail users
- Protect our dogs from preventable harm
- Reduce stress and disruption for wildlife
- Prevent the spread of disease and nutrient imbalances
- Contribute to a shared ethic of care for natural spaces
This isn’t about discouraging dogs on trails. Far from it—we love that people want to share these experiences with their companions. But like any privilege, bringing a dog into a protected space comes with responsibility. When we leash up, clean up, and move through these places with care, we’re not just visitors—we’re part of a larger effort to ensure these ecosystems stay vibrant, resilient, and welcoming for generations to come.
