A lack of places where Rover can run free is forcing pet-owners to drive to one of the six dog parks in the city and creating congestion in those neighbourhoods, according to a city councillor.

Gloucester-Southgate Councillor Diane Deans wrote in an open letter Tuesday to the National Capital Commission that it should dedicate more space in the Greenbelt for off-leash dog parks as part of its Greenbelt Master Plan.

"Less than one per cent of the green space the NCC owns within the boundaries of the city of Ottawa is for dog walkers, or for dogs off leash," said Deans.

Deans said Conroy Pit, in her ward, is a great place for dog walkers, but the overflowing parking lot is beginning to cause problems with residents of the neighbourhood.

Graham Miles walks his four-month-old dog at Conroy Pit. He said the lack of parking poses a problem for dog walkers and residents alike.

"It's dangerous because I'm afraid my dog will get hit by a car and not only that, kids too," said Miles. "Is there ample parking? No, there's not. It won't happen until someone gets hurt."

The National Capital Commission said it received Deans' letter and will review it. The review of the Greenbelt land use should be completed in 2011.