ridecamp@endurance.net: endurance dogs

endurance dogs

Dawn Packard (packardd@ci.boulder.co.us)
Wed, 18 Jun 1997 16:50:53 -0700

As an endurance rider, lab breeder, and park ranger here in Colorado, I'd
have to put my vote in against dogs accompanying their owners while
riding. Unless your dog RELIABLY:
-Comes when calls,
-Stays really close (within voice and sight range at least),
-Absolutely doesn't chase or harass wildlife, livestock, other dogs and
trail users,
then it should stay home. It sounds simple but most dogs just aren't at
that level of training. Also it is hard to protect your dog from other dogs,
potential wildlife conflicts, and aggressive park users (yes they are out
there with their anti-dog mace and sticks, etc..). when you are up in the
saddle.
Most of the bureaucratic anti-dog and anti-horse regulations I have
seen come into effect at my agency all started with individual complaints
coming in with regard to specific incidents (aggressive, out-of-control
dogs, reckless riders, etc.) on the trail. These complaints then snowball
into committees and consideration of regulatory changes....The way we
conduct ourselves on the trail with our animals has a DIRECT impact on
the future of equestrian and canine access to public lands.

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