Deb and Ed M wrote:
I think the OP has the right idea - be able to prove with a REAL certificate, that the dog is well-trained and well-socialized. My experience has been that RV parks will fudge the rules for "good dog owners"
I was surprised, as we pulled into our RV site, to see 2 Dobies in the site next door, in a "restricted-breed" campground. And then I saw why - they were loose! There was a thin string laying on the ground defining their space. Those dogs were trained beyond perfection. I wandered over to their owner, to apologize for the rude behavior that was going to erupt from my rescued Cattle Dog, (who had a real hatred of large black dogs). He laughed and said "not a problem" - every time we passed, he somehow was able to make his dogs "freeze" - Jack never knew they were next door.
First, it is a against the law to request any kind of documentation for a "service" dog under the ADA. A "therapy" dog, on the other hand, can be banned at will. That has no standing with the ADA.
As for bending the rules for good dog owners, my position is no way. I really don't care that the guy who left his dogs unleashed had them under total control. There will be someone three sites away that will either believe they are in imminent danger of being mauled or that if it is OK for those people it is OK for them.
The OP hinted at one of the problems with certain breeds, often people are afraid of dogs with dangerous reputations. To many people walking by a site with a pit bull in it is akin to walking by a site where the occupant tracks them with deer rifle. It is the park's job to balance the needs of all the guests. Leash rules go a long way towards that goal. It allows a way for guests with pets to have them, while providing a level of comfort for guests who have concerns about what animals can and will do.
