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Date:
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Sept. 3, 2024
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TDD:
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(520) 791-2639
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 CITY OF TUCSON PARKS AND RECREATION LAUNCHES "LEASH UP. CLEAN UP." CAMPAIGN DURING RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNERSHIP MONTH
The City of Tucson Parks and Recreation department is proud to announce the launch of the "Leash Up. Clean Up." campaign, kicking off in September, in celebration of Responsible Dog Ownership Month. This initiative encourages all pet owners to keep their dogs on a leash in public spaces and to always clean up after their pets. The campaign aims to promote responsible pet ownership, emphasizing the importance of following local and state regulations, while highlighting the environmental, health, and public safety benefits.
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Encourage responsible pet ownership: Remind the community to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them.
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Raise awareness: Educate the public about the negative impacts of off-leash dogs and dog waste on the environment, public health, and safety.
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Promote compliance with laws: Increase awareness of Arizona Revised Statutes and Tucson City codes.
The "Leash Up" portion of the campaign emphasizes the dangers associated with off-leash dogs in Tucson's desert landscape, which is home to wildlife, such as javelinas, coyotes, and snakes. Off-leash dogs risk attacks or altercations with these animals and other pets, posing dangers to both pets and wildlife. The campaign also highlights the need for dog owners to respect the comfort and safety of others, as many people are fearful of dogs. Additionally, some dogs are uncomfortable around other dogs, leading to altercations and tense times at the parks. It is important to note that sports fields are not a place for animals and off-leash dogs.
The "Clean Up" aspect of the campaign addresses the importance of keeping public spaces free from dog waste, which poses a health risk to people and is unsightly. It emphasizes that cleaning up after pets is a basic courtesy, as dog poop is unpleasant and should not be left for others to step in. Moreover, dog waste can spread diseases and parasites, such as salmonella, E. coli, and roundworms, which are harmful to other animals and humans. Contrary to popular belief, dog waste is not a fertilizer; it is highly acidic and can damage grass, contaminate gardens, and affect water sources with harmful bacteria.
Tucson Parks and Recreation invites all community members to participate in the "Leash Up. Clean Up." campaign. By keeping dogs leashed and cleaning up after them, we can protect our environment, safeguard the public, and promote a respectful and welcoming atmosphere for all. A toolkit has been developed to make promoting and educating the community about the dog leash and litter laws a little easier. The toolkit includes template key messages for use on social media, graphics, and artwork for banners and other advertisements. For more information on the "Leash Up. Clean Up." Campaign or to utilize the toolkit, visit our website at tucsonparks.info/LeashUpCleanUp.
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