For the first time in years, leashed dogs are now allowed in Fort Lauderdale parks, boosting the city’s reputation as a canine-friendly town.
The rules changed recently, thanks to a unanimous vote from the City Commission.
Longtime resident Mary Peloquin was thrilled.
“I am on the parks board and have been trying to get dogs allowed in Fort Lauderdale for five years like every other American city,” she said. “So happy it finally passed.”
Prior to the rule change, dogs were allowed only in designated areas, including Canine Beach, Riverwalk and specific dog parks in Holiday Park, Snyder Park and Riverside Park.
Dogs are now welcome in all 110 parks, but pet owners will still need to follow a handful of rules:
— The dogs will need to be on a leash that’s a maximum of 6 feet.
— No pets are allowed on athletic fields, playgrounds, courts, splash pads or bodies of water unless the area is designated for animals.
— Owners will be required to pick up after their dog if nature calls.