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Managing open space specifically in smaller communities such as Imperial Beach has changed dramatically in the last twenty years. The range of recreational activities in which people are engaged has expanded while budgets and resources have become more challenged. Dog owners in Imperial Beach have been especially challenged by park use restrictions. With the exception of National City, Imperial Beach is the only other municipality that does not have designated and legal off leash area.

The benefits of pet ownership are becoming clearer as more studies and case histories become available. Pets are now being recognized for their physical and   mental health benefits, for their role as companions and social facilitators, and in helping children learn responsibility and how to share.For many single and elderly people a dog not only provides companionship but often is the only source of home and personal security.  Beyond this, dogs play a vital role working in society in numerous ways such as assisting the handicapped and working for the military, police departments, and search and rescue teams.

Why Dogs Need Access to Open Space

The most obvious reason why dogs need access to public open space is because of their popularity. Dog owners are a substantial group of park users. There are 1,639 dog owners registered in the city of Imperial Beach. This does not take into account residents new to our city that continue to pay the appropriate licensing fees that is registered to former municipality. 

The second reason has to do with the link between open space for dogs and promoting acceptable behavior from dogs. Dogs need to be properly socialized in appropriate behavior. They also need regular outings to reduce boredom and pent-up energy at home. Access to a park close to home is the safest and most effective way to ensure that owners socialize their dogs and provide them with on-going experiences in the outside world. This not only benefits the dog and its owner but also neighbors who are affected by unacceptable behavior at home, other park and street users, and authorities responsible for urban animal management.
The third reason why dogs need access to public open space is for the positive effects it can have on their owners. Owning a dog encourages people to exercise and visit their local park. Taking a dog out has also been found to stimulate social interaction with other people (Journal of Nutrition and the Elderly, 1996).
The final reason is that a balanced approach to accommodating dog owners in public open space may achieve higher levels of compliance by dog owners with relevant laws. Residents are also forced to go to other municipalities, because Imperial Beach does not provide a designated off leash area.