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Press release from the City of Arcata:

Arcata, CA – Celebrate National Dog Month this August by being a responsible dog owner and following all local laws protecting pets, the environment and the community.

In the City of Arcata, dogs must always be leashed on City trails and parks, including the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary, Redwood Park and the Arcata Community Forest. Pet owners with friendly dogs should remember that other dogs may not be friendly and could be nervous, reactive, fearful, in training or owned by people who want to be left alone. Never let a dog run up to another without talking to the owner first. Respect others and their need for space.

Here are five key reasons to leash your dog in public spaces:

1. On-leash isn’t just good practice; it’s the law. Arcata Municipal Code Section 10008 states that dogs must be leashed in all public areas. Leashes must be under six feet long and sturdy. Dogs are not allowed, even on leash, in the downtown business district, including the Arcata Plaza. When planning to visit the Saturday Farmers’ Market, leave the dogs at home and enjoy a dog-friendly trail afterward.

2. Prevent the spread of disease. Pet waste is full of bacteria that can make pets, people and wildlife sick. Some local streams and beaches have been placed on the North Coast Water Board’s Impaired Waterbodies Action List due to fecal pollution directly linked to dog waste. When dogs are on a leash, it is easier for owners to locate their pets’ waste. The owner can then pick it up and appropriately dispose of it in the trash. If bags were forgotten, most City parks and trails offer pet waste stations with bags and trash bins, please use them. Never toss pet waste into the trees, bushes, streets or gutters.

3. Safety: An unleashed dog can cause accidents or be in an accident. Leashes help prevent dogs from running into roads, cyclists or other trail users. Leashed dogs are also easier to manage if confronted by other animals, aggressive dogs or unforeseen hazards.

4. Wildlife and habitat protection. Off-leash dogs can unintentionally scare or harm wildlife, disturb nesting birds and damage sensitive habitats. Staying on leash and on trail preserves local ecosystems.

5. Reunite lost pets: When a dog has a leash and collar people know that the dog belongs to someone in the case of separation. It is important for a dog’s collar to have an ID tag with basic contact information such as the dog’s name, the owner’s name and a phone number. Additionally, dog owners in the City of Arcata are required to obtain a Dog License, which will help reunite pets with their owners. For more information about the application or annual fees, visit cityofarcata.org/401/Dog-Licenses.

6. A Special Note for Cat Owners: Many people are bringing cats to parks and trails using cat backpacks or strollers. Be sure your cat is also harnessed and leashed, even inside a carrier, to prevent escape. While cats don’t require licenses in Arcata, they too benefit from ID tags and safe outdoor practices.

Some beaches and trails in Humboldt County allow dogs to be off-leash if they are under voice control. For those with little or no voice control over their dogs, keep them on a leash at all times. For a detailed list of recreation areas in Humboldt County and the dog use regulations at each location, Friends of the Dunes offers free online maps and guides. Visit friendsofthedunes.org/resources and scroll down to find the Exploring Wild Places with Your Dog map.

This Dog Month, consider donating to local shelters and care centers or volunteering time. Local shelters are often at full capacity and struggle with a lack of either funds or supplies. Donate old blankets or pet food which can make a significant difference for local shelters.

For a map of DogiPot locations in the City of Arcata and information on the impact of pet waste, please visit cityofarcata.org/779/Pet-Waste or contact the Environmental Services Department at (707) 822-8184.