Pilot Program Allows Off-Leash Dogs at Mountain View Parks

Mountain View residents will be able to keep their dogs off-leash at parks thanks to a pilot program.

Officials said the program will launch Monday and will designate off-leash areas at six city parks where dogs can run free.

"It's hard when you live in a complex with no backyward and you have to keep your dog on a leash all the time," said Judy Adams, who is in favor of the program.

Adams said she likes to let her dog, Toby, run free at Whisman Park.

Officials said they are working to make city parks more accessible.

"Sometimes it's a dog area and sometimes it's not a dog area, which is really important because in Mountain View -- land wise -- there is limited space," said Shonda Ranson, city spokesperson.

Rebecca Sloan keeps her dog, Sadie, on a leash because she can't be trusted. Sloan hopes other dog owners will be cautious with the new rules.

"I assume people know that if their dog is dangerous they'd keep it on-leash," Sloan said.

Temporary signs will be posted in the off-leash areas later this week, officials said. Contact information with questions, complaints or feedback will also be listed on the signs.

The pilot program will be tested for a year.

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