Leash up or lose out on forest

Two attacks in the last six months by off-leash dogs on forestry workers in the Witfontein plantation have sparked fresh calls for dog walkers to respect trail rules. George Herald can confirm that in the most recent attack, one or more workers were bitten.

- Jacqueline Herbst

The George Joint Marketing Association (GJMA) is the custodian of George Trails, and according to the general trail use guidelines published on the George Trails website, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.

While the National Forest Act does not include provision specifically about leashing dogs, the George Municipality bylaw relating to the keeping of dogs, cats and other animals clearly states that no dog may be in any public street or public place unless it is contained on a leash and under control - unless the area is officially designated as a free-running zone.