Conflict ignites between dog owners, residents at Shubie Park
Police charge resident who used fireworks to scare dogs away from park's off-leash area
The tension between dog owners and homeowners around an off-leash area at Shubie Park in Dartmouth has exploded, with charges being laid against one person for setting off fireworks to intentionally scare off dogs.
People who live near the park have complained for years about dogs barking at the beach area, saying the noise is incessant and a nuisance. A sign went up in the park a few months ago.
"If your dog barks, it can disturb neighbours and other park users," it reads. "Please do not use this area if you can't control your dog's barking."
Fireworks used to frighten dogs
But it appears some residents aren't satisfied with that.
On Thursday, a Facebook group called Shubie Park Off Leash Area warned users that fireworks were being used to intimidate dogs and owners.
The Halifax Regional Police community response officer for the area confirmed they have had complaints about the fireworks.
"There have been numerous complaints over the last year or so and dog owners at the park feel the fireworks are directed at the dogs themselves to disrupt the park," Const. Danny Berrigan said.
Resident charged
Berrigan said one resident was caught by police setting off fireworks on Tuesday and was charged under the noise bylaw.
"A police officer was on patrol and he heard the fireworks himself, he recognized the person and he issued a ticket," he said.
Berrigan said there is little police can do about the barking issue since the dogs are in a designated off-leash area.
"They're there lawfully and council would have to shut it down and I don't think they are prepared to that at this time," he said. "It's there to stay."