Parts of Garden City Park will be closed until further notice to allow animal control officers to trap two dogs that have been at large for the past few weeks.
The City of Richmond announced the closure of the trails on the eastern part of the park on June 12, almost two weeks after BC SPCA warned the public not to approach the dogs.
"The playground remains open but people are asked to remain vigilant and not go near the dogs if spotted, while keeping their own pets on leash at all times," reads the city's media release.
"Efforts to catch the dogs by city staff and the BC SPCA have been unsuccessful to date due to the dogs’ tendency to sometimes appear frightening, the park’s challenging undergrowth, and interference with capture efforts by park users."
Reports of the two dogs, described as large in size with beige fur and darker muzzles and ears, first reached BC SPCA on May 8.
BC SPCA then issued a public warning on May 31 and the city installed signs to alert the public last week.
BC SPCA staff are patrolling the park daily and nearby daycares and schools are being updated on the situation.
The city is asking the community to adhere to the following:
- Stay out of the closed park areas
- Maintain a safe distance from the dogs if sighted
- Report sightings to 604-709-4668
- Refrain from feeding the dogs or leaving food in the area
- Don't approach or attempt to leash the dogs
The city also warns that stray animals can act unpredictably due to fear, hunger or pain.
"While the city and BC SPCA appreciate that the community may want to help, interactions with the dogs at large can place both the animals and humans at risk," reads the release.
"It is extremely detrimental to ongoing efforts to bring these dogs into the care they need."
Anyone who sees the dogs in Garden City Park should call the BC SPCA at 604-709-4668 immediately.
