In both cases, the irresponsible owners of the dogs failed to restrain their animals. These frequent and uninitiated dog attacks have made me reconsider whether our treasured stretch of traffic-free pavement along the Animas River is safe for running, walking or bicycling.

In Durango, we have a wonderful community that encourages outdoor activity. I implore dog owners to help keep the river trail a safe place where people can experience the outdoors without the constant threat of being attacked by an unleashed or unrestrained dog.

If your dog has a tendency to bite or attack people, please consider using the dog park instead of the river trail. Also, I would like to see the city of Durango enact stricter laws that impose heavier fines on violators of the existing leash law. Let’s keep the Animas River Trail a recreational resource that can be enjoyed by all users.

Steven Fenster

Durango