Off-leash dogs in Jasper are becoming increasingly common in the park, creating a safety hazard for wildlife and other trail users, according to Parks Canada.

Jasper National Park warden, Jim Mamalis, said he regularly sees people on the trails with their dogs off-leash and issues several warnings per year.

However there have been several instances of late that have caused alarm.

“It’s a very frequent occurrence,” Mamalis said.

Wildlife are often chased by off-leash dogs, which can lead to the animal’s death. Mamalis recalls an incident in 2008, where an off-leash dog chased a mule deer onto Connaught Dr. where it was hit and killed by a car.

There are also many people who are afraid of dogs, Mamalis said, noting it’s unfair to other trail users to leave dogs off-leash.

In other parks, the problem is more severe.

There have been instances where off-leash dogs have attracted bears and cougars, resulting in human/wildlife conflicts. About three years ago, a black bear was drawn to a dog and its owners, and subsequently attacked a woman.

Cougar activity is more frequent than many believe, he said, and off-leash dogs provide easy prey for cougars. In Banff National Park, there have been instances of cougars preying upon family pets.

Parks Canada and bylaw officials have received several complaints about dogs off-leash, and wardens issue several warnings per year, Mamalis said. However, few tickets are issued.

Within the townsite, the fine for having a dog off-leash is $100. Outside of the townsite, the maximum fine is $2,000 and includes a court appearance.

Veterinarian Dr. Janet Jones says she’s seen many dogs injured or killed after encountering wildlife. Owners who lose control of their pets are putting them at risk, she said, noting there’s no excuse for not using a leash.

“Dogs on leash don’t get into trouble,” Dr. Jones said. “Many pet owners believe they have great control of their animals, however very few will return on command.”

Dogs off-leash often get into trouble, or are injured.

“When do I see injuries, when they’re loose. When do I see them get into trouble, when they’re loose,” Dr. Jones said. She had three instances where dogs jumped off Old Fort Point this summer, and three occasions where dogs running on the street have suffered broken legs.

“They’re chasing an animal and they just go. It’s so rife with risk,” Dr. Jones said.