Leashes And Poop Bags: MassWildlife Proposes New Dog Laws

WESTBOROUGH, MA—Reacting to repeated complaints about off-leash dogs creating negative and unsafe encounters out on the trails, MassWildlife is proposing leash and waste disposal regulations for dogs on Wildlife Management Areas. A public hearing has been scheduled for Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. at the MassWildlife Field Headquarters, 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough.

The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) has a long tradition of welcoming dogs on Wildlife Management Areas (WMA), and dogs are still welcome on WMAs under this proposal, according to the announcement.

Not only have there been repeated complaints about unsafe encounters, but also issues surrounding dog waste.

MassWildlife "protects and manages these areas to sustain wildlife abundance and diversity and provide wildlife-related recreation, including hunting, fishing and wildlife-watching, while at the same time providing a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience for all visitors."

According to MassWildlife:

1. The proposed regulations require leashing dogs and other domestic animals on WMAs. Dogs may be off-leash only when hunting or hunt-training with licensed hunters under existing regulations, or if they are participating in retriever or bird dog trial events that have been permitted by MassWildlife. Leashing dogs decreases conflicts with both people and other dogs, resulting in a safer and more positive experience for everyone.
2. The proposal also requires dog owners to pick up dog waste and dispose of it offsite. Removing dog waste reduces nuisance and protects the safety and health of dogs and other pets, people, and wildlife.

Information on the public hearing, public comment process and proposed regulatory language is posted on MassWildlife’s website.

Find lands managed by MassWildife here.

Photo via MassWildlife/mass.gov