Dogs On Trail Must Be On Leash

Feb. 16, 2024 Editor, The News-Gazette: Dogs on the Chessie Nature Trail must always be on a 6-foot leash for the safety of trail users, other pets, and wildlife. Most dog owners respect this rule, but recently, there have been multiple incidents of unleashed dogs on the trail. Even a dog who is not aggressive can be scary to someone who is afraid of dogs, and an aggressive one can scare all of us.

So, what can you do if you encounter an unleashed or aggressive dog on the trail?

First, politely inform the dog owner of the VMI rule and the county law. If they are receptive, perhaps that’s all you need to do.

If not, call 911. Central dispatch will connect you with the VMI police and enter your call into a database to document the extent of this problem. You do not have to have been bitten to report an aggressive dog. If you feel comfortable, take a photo of the dog, its owner, or vehicle/ license plate. These will be helpful to the investigating officer. VMI owns the Chessie Trail, and the VMI police can issue “no trespassing” orders. They can also enforce Rockbridge County’s leash law by issuing citations (a class 4 misdemeanor).

Let’s all work together to make the Chessie Trail a safe and welcoming resource for everyone.

DR. COLLEEN ARNOLD Board member, Friends of the Chessie Trail