I went to Jackson Park Wednesday night. I was planning to ride to Lakefield but Pat said, “I will go with you, I think you need to reclaim Jackson Park”. So off we went.
I couldn’t believe just how nervous I was – I slowed right down and pretty much stopped breathing between Bonaccord and the first bridge.
I had to laugh when I nearly jumped out of my skin when I saw a 3 pound dog running around. (Little dogs are dangerous because they run in front of bikes but I was not in danger of an attack – I was going too fast for the little guy to catch.)
Once I got going I started feeling better. We counted 7 loose dogs that night – but 3 were out near Lilly Lake Road.
I haven’t been back for a run, but I will – but I won’t be going alone.
I saw another off leash dog today, during my run in Jackson Park. It was near the Parkhill Bridge. I was passing a lady who’s dog was, at least, 20 or 30 feet ahead of her, playing in the grass. Thankfully the dog didn’t bother me as I ran past. But it’s always a little nerve racking seeing off leash dogs, because I never have any way of knowing how they will react. I don’t feel as though I can simply trust that the owner has it under control, since that often ends up not being the case.