The incident in which Rosie, a Newfoundland dog, was killed by a Des Moines police officer in November began with a stray dog report.
In light of that, the following press release from Des Moines Animal Control Officer Jan Magnuson is especially relevant:

Beginning this week and throughout the summer, a Leash Law Emphasis will be conducted by DMPD (Des Moines Police Department), specifically targeting city parks and the marinas (the main marina and Redondo).

ALL of Des Moines is a leash law area-
· Per DMMC 19.08, the citation fine for a dog not being under proper leash control in a city park is $291
· Per DMMC 15.04, the citation fine for a dog not being under proper leash control in the marina is $513
· Per DMMC 8.04, the citation fine for a dog not being under proper leash control on other public property or trespassing on private property is $86

Leash laws are for the safety and enjoyment of both citizens and the dogs! Even small, friendly dogs can be frightening when running loose, especially to young children, folks with mental or physical disabilities, other dogs or native wildlife. Even well-trained dogs can occasionally misbehave when distracted, so keeping them under proper leash control keeps them safe also!

For those who wish to exercise their dogs off-leash, Grandview Park at 228/Military Rd S in SeaTac is the perfect place! It is less than a mile from Des Moines and is a wonderful spot to gather with other folks and their dogs who enjoy off leash play.

And don't forget to always keep a valid license tag on your dog and to scoop when he does his "business", as those are citable offenses also!