Trail runners have a duty to be safe and considerate
Recently, my two dogs and I were enjoying our daily walk on a dog-friendly conservation trail in Acton.
I often encounter walkers, runners, bicyclists, and even cross-country skiers while walking my two dogs. In these situations, I usually put the dogs in a down-stay position out of consideration for those passing by. This works well as it creates awareness of their presence for both the dogs and those passing by, allowing for smooth, incident-free passage.
Recently, my two dogs and I were enjoying our daily walk on a dog-friendly conservation trail in Acton. The trail is open to dogs on leash or under effective voice control, which my dogs were. Out of nowhere, a runner jetted out from behind us without warning and aggressively ran in between me and my dogs and then in between the two dogs — startling us all — despite ample trail width had he chosen to run around us. Additionally, the runner left little room between his steps and the position of the dogs. The dogs, naturally being protective of themselves and their “pack” members, began barking. After passing us, the runner turned around and yelled at me to “put them on a leash if that’s how they behave” and then ran out of sight, seemingly clueless that his choices instigated the barking.
Most bicyclists are mindful by calling out “on your left” and leaving some distance when passing walkers, runners, rollerbladers, etc. — to prevent surprises and potential injury. The same holds true when approaching dogs and their walkers. Whether the dogs are leashed or not, giving a heads-up and some distance and passing on the outside are wise. This helps prevent conflict and promotes freedom for all to enjoy their outdoor excursions. Runners, please be more thoughtful and considerate of others on the trail. Thank you.
Carol Bergeron
Main Street
