Michaela Coats has witnessed off-leash dogs disturbing endangered birds in their nesting habitats at the meeting point of Huntington and Newport beaches in the Santa Ana River area. She has also observed irresponsible dog owners allowing their pets to defecate in the river, leading to contamination of water sources and potential risks for beachgoers. Recent research has linked these actions to harm for wildlife and watersheds throughout Southern California. Coats, who serves as the education director for the nonprofit Orange County Coastkeeper, is now urging the public to adhere to the principles of “Leave No Trace” not only for themselves but also for their animals.
It is important to note that responsible dog ownership does not mean not taking dogs into nature at all. In fact, experts suggest that by following environmentally-friendly practices, pet owners can reduce the risks associated with outdoor activities. This is particularly crucial during the summer months following a wet winter, as the chances of encountering dangerous creatures like snakes, ticks, and poison oak are higher. “By following the rules,” Coats advises, “you can ensure that both the environment and your pet remain as safe as possible.”
The first step in ensuring that dogs do not harm ecosystems is to thoroughly research the rules and regulations of the area before visiting. This information is readily available online, and platforms like BringFido.com and AllTrails can help you find dog-friendly hikes and recreational areas. Surprisingly, many people are uninformed about the fact that dogs are not allowed on trails in most national parks and certain state parks. As Jorge Moreno, spokesperson for California State Parks, highlights, even well-behaved dogs can cause problems by displacing and disturbing wildlife, and even spreading diseases. Dogs, to wild animals, resemble predators, so they can cause disruption even if they are on a leash. In order to protect sensitive wildlife and vegetation, dogs are often not allowed in these areas. When dogs are permitted, the visit requires careful planning and management. The California State Parks’ website provides detailed information on the rules regarding dogs in state parks, including a list of parks and areas that allow canines. For instance, dogs are only allowed on paved areas at Crystal Cove State Park, while they are permitted throughout Los Angeles State Historic Park as long as they are on a leash.
One hotly debated topic among hiking enthusiasts is whether or not dogs should be allowed off-leash. Coats, who frequently takes her family’s Boston terrier and her boyfriend’s Samoyed on adventures, believes that well-behaved dogs can be let off-leash in certain circumstances. However, it is crucial to keep them leashed in sensitive locations, such as the Santa Ana River mouth.
Overall, it is important for dog owners to be mindful of their actions in nature to ensure the conservation of ecosystems and the well-being of their furry friends. By following the “Leave No Trace” principles and researching the rules beforehand, both pet owners and wildlife can coexist harmoniously in Southern California’s natural settings.
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