READERS of The Oldham Times have shared their thoughts on whether dogs should be kept on a leash at all times when walking in public places in Oldham.

The Oldham Times asked readers on Facebook what they thought about the idea and the post was met with a flurry of mixed views.

Many were concerned about dogs attacking their own beloved pets or even their children.

But others felt it would impinge on the animal's welfare if it were prohibited from being able to run freely.

Have your say in our poll below

For Bek Slater, it depends on the type of park in question and if the dog walker has control.

She wrote: “Yes, or at the very least some parks.

“I’d love somewhere to walk my dog who is very anxious of other dogs without constantly having people allowing their dogs to run over to him.”

Ms Slater claimed that she has ‘lost count’ of how many times her nervous pet has been attacked by unruly dogs off the leash.

Yet Hollie Cooper felt dogs should only be on a leash when in children’s parks and garden walkways, and could be taken off when in larger country spaces. 

“Not all of us are irresponsible dog owners”, Ms Cooper added.

Sharon Chadwick Hollins agreed that it boils down to the dog’s individual temperament and its recall skills, but added that some dog owners let their dogs run far away without being mindful of picking up any mess.

However, one dog owner, Ian Frost, said he always keeps his pet on a leash in the local parks.

Mr Frost commented: “Dogs behaviour can be unpredictable, and not all dogs like to be approached by other dogs.”

Echoing this view, Gemma Louise said her dogs are always kept on a lead, but she uses a 15-meter biothane leash to allow them to roam unrestricted while still being under her control.

And Barabara Arya said dogs should ‘definitely’ be kept on a leash: “[If] there are children about and vulnerable people.”

But other Oldhamers said there ought to be more safe spaces for dogs to run freely.

James Cowley reasonably suggested that a designated fenced-off area should be erected in Oldham for dogs to run in.

Likewise, Ci Cee commented: “Solution: make a dog park.”

However, some commenters stressed that it would be cruel to prohibit dogs the opportunity to run.

Eva Lowe said: “That would be cruelty to animals.

“Would you keep your toddlers on a leash at all times?

“Dogs should be able to run and spend energy like any other living creatures.

“If you are afraid of dogs, that’s your problem, not the dog”, Ms Lowe added.

Norma Maclennan added: “No not at all. There are so many energetic dogs that need a good run.

“I’d rather put a lead on their owners”, she joked.