The off-leash area is safe, open and awaiting your return

The Toronto police officially re-opened the off-leash area in June of 2008 following an investigation into several dogs who were poisoned in an area adjacent to the off-leash area.  While the police spoke to a number of individuals about the incidents charges were never laid and there has been no repeat of the incidents. Following the incidents, the local dog-owner community held a memorial fundraising BBQ and walk in High Park, which raised money to help pay the vet. bills for those affected by the tragedy. The K9 committee is working hard to ensure similar incidents do not occur again in the future and we appreciate any advice or suggestion that the public can provide (k9@highpark.org)

A message from the K9 committee co-chair about the re-opening of the off-leash area.
I attended the re-opening of the off-leash area and my dog, Caeli, was the first to enjoy a relaxing romp around Dog Hill and a cool drink from the water fountain.  I believe, but ultimately it is up to the police to determine, that dogs were not the intentional target in this incident. The bread was located a great distance from Dog Hill, in a heavily wooded area outside of the off-leash area that was unfortunate not fenced off at the time. The area is now completely fenced off and our group sweep the off-leash area and surrounding woods finding nothing suscpicous. Our dog, Caeli, means the world to my wife and I and we would not have let her back into the off-leash area if I thought she was in any danger.  When you and your dog return to High Park, I would simply ask that you keep on eye on your dog and use caution.

Raccoon deaths
I cannot emphasize enough that these deaths occurred over the last two years and, with rare exception, could equally have been due to natural causes.  We merely brought these incidents up with police and animal services so that in the future they could be dealt with promptly and properly investigated.  High Park is home to enumerable wildlife, including coyotes, foxes, skunks, squirrels, chipmunks, hawks, rabbits, groundhogs and even deer. These species continue to thrive in the park and when you return I hope you have the opportunity to observe these wonderful creatures.

Healing the wounds
Despite the recent media hype blaming one group and then another for this incident, I would strongly caution anyone from pointing the finger at another group in High Park.  We are a close knit-community,  I don't think any particular group is responsible and these types of allegations seriously harm our chances of building a better park for everyone involved.  Furthermore I am confident that the police will investigate any and every possibility.

Let us now focus our energy on comforting those who have lost a valued member of their family and towards building a sustainable off-leash area for future two and four-legged generations to enjoy.