This ignorance of the law has bit me - literally. On a day this winter, I was bitten by a dog who was off of his/her leash on a gravel trail. It wasn't a hard bite. The teeth didn't actually clench down on my wrist, but the attempt was there. I was really surprised this family would let a dog who they couldn't keep under control off of its leash. What's almost worse is that I didn't even get a "sorry" from the owners. That was really puzzling. I think it may serve as a reason behind why people don't leash up their dogs on the trail - they don't think it's a problem that their dogs are overly playful with disinterested joggers.
Some joggers have different purposes when they are out on the trail. For some, it's to just enjoy the fresh air while getting some exercise. For others, it is socializing with someone, which could include others on the trail, including their pets. And still, for some others, it is getting a specific workout done. Dog owners need to respect the desire for all trail users to not be disturbed. Please, if you are going to bring your dog anywhere in the Grindstone Nature Area, make sure they are properly trained. Specifically, make sure they won't attempt to bite.
Just a week ago, as the temperature got warmer, I again encountered many dogs off of their leashes along the gravel portion of the trail. Some looked very dangerous, running far away from their owners. I was forced to stop jogging and walk when I saw these dogs, as to not incite them further by running.
Please, keep your dogs on a leash if you cannot control them. Think about the other people using the path.
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