01/14/2026
This is exactly why I do not first do pack hikes and hike in areas where off leash dogs are either not allowed or in areas where there aren't a lot of people.
Please read through this!
A few days ago, we responded to a report of upwards of 18-24 dogs off leash in and around Wilson Mountain, extending onto Northeastern University’s (NU) Dedham campus.
We found that some of the dogs were under the care of a couple of dog walkers, who are already known to us through a history of leash law violations and compromises to the safety and health of the dogs under their care.
These particular dog walkers also have a documented history of similar advisories, warnings and citations, from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR).
Dedham requires leashes, per its town Bylaws. DCR property, including Wilson Mountain, has their leash and dog walker regulations posted at all of their properties and on their website.
NU has private property signs posted on their campus and expects use of their property to be for legitimate purposes.
While RE-addressing the most recent incident infractions with these dog walkers, we also reminded them of the increase in coyote activity this time of year, which poses an additional risk for off leash dogs.
Less than 24 hours after addressing this (recent) incident, we found them again, in the very same place, with just as many dogs, and evasive of us. Bold. Disrespectful.
Violations of laws and regulations which compromise public safety may result in fines, warnings, and even the issuance of No Trespass Orders.
Dog Owners - WE are doing our very best to protect YOUR dogs (as well as people, and the environment). If you are utilizing a dog walker, please understand that WE cannot protect YOUR dogs if YOU are not protecting them as well.
We fully support professional dog walking, when it’s done lawfully, safely and responsibly. As a dog owner, this should be your priority as well.
Please help us! Before you send your dog off with a dog walker, you need to know (at minimum)...
🐾your dog walker’s experience, trustworthiness and knowledge of more than just ‘dogs’
🐾where your dog is being taken to be walked
🐾if your dog is going to be taken off leash (if you permit it)
🐾if the location where your dog is being taken off leash lawfully supports off leash activity
🐾how many other dogs your dog walker also has off leash (or on leash) while your dog is under their care (is it a safe number?)
🐾how many dogs will be transported in your dog walkers motor vehicle and how each dog will be restrained (we just witnessed a dog walker put 11 dogs in one SUV with no restraint noted)
Our entities have a vested mutual interest in protecting animals, protecting public safety, and upholding the applicable laws and regulations that support both pet ownership and the dog care industry.
We want to take a moment to thank all responsible dog walkers- we appreciate you. Our hope is that those who have fallen short of our expectations, will join us and help to keep Dedham a safe and thriving place for dogs.
[Image of several unrestrained dogs near Wilson Mt., Dedham]
