As another busy visitor season brings people and their pets to Cook County, it's a good time to remember one simple rule that makes a big difference: keep your dog on a leash.

While visitors are often reminded of local leash laws, this message is just as important for those of us who call the North Shore home. Whether you're a tourist or a local, following leash laws, practicing good trail etiquette, and respecting others helps keep our community safe year-round.

Whether you're exploring downtown, staying at the campground, or hiking local trails, leash laws are in place to protect everyone. Even the friendliest dogs can become unpredictable in unfamiliar environments filled with new people, other dogs, wildlife, bicycles, and busy streets.

Off-leash dogs can create dangerous situations for pedestrians, children, other pets, and wildlife. Not every person is comfortable around dogs, and not every dog wants to be greeted by another. A loose dog approaching another leashed dog can quickly lead to a stressful or even dangerous encounter. Wildlife can also be disturbed or injured when chased, even if a dog is only trying to play.

Trail manners are just as important as leash manners. Before allowing your dog to approach someone, it's respectful to ask whether they would like to say hello. The same goes for introducing dogs to one another—always ask first. Not every person wants to interact with a dog, and not every dog enjoys meeting unfamiliar people or other dogs. Likewise, if you see someone else's dog, ask before petting or before allowing your dog to greet theirs. A simple conversation can prevent unnecessary stress and help ensure every outing is a positive one.

Many owners believe their dog has excellent recall, but distractions like squirrels, deer, another dog, or even an exciting smell can override even the best training. That's why leash requirements exist—they're meant to prevent problems before they happen.

For dogs that enjoy off-leash play, Grand Marais has a designated dog park where they can safely run and socialize. For more information about the dog park, visit Go Dog North Shore on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoDogNorthShore/.

Grand Marais welcomes visitors and their four-legged companions, and following local leash laws helps ensure everyone can enjoy the community safely and respectfully. A leash is a simple tool that protects your dog, your neighbors, local wildlife, and fellow visitors.

As a professional dog trainer and owner of North Paws Wilderness, I've worked with many clients over the years whose dogs have experienced frightening or even traumatic encounters with off-leash dogs. Those experiences can have lasting effects on a dog's confidence and behavior, even when no one intended harm. Responsible leash use isn't about assuming the worst—it's about preventing situations that don't need to happen.

Whether you're visiting for the weekend or have lived here for years, taking leash laws and trail etiquette seriously helps keep Cook County a safe and welcoming place for everyone. It's a small act of responsibility that makes a big difference.