Rants & Raves: Off-leash, out-of-control little dogs

All dogs should be on a leash in public parks. Photo / Greg Bowker

Tell us what you love about life in New Zealand - and what needs to change. Email rantandrave@nzherald.co.nz.

Rant
Why do people with small dogs think that they can ignore the rules that ask for all dogs to be on a leash in public parks? The rule is there for the safety and wellbeing of everyone and their pets. I walk a medium-sized dog who is well behaved in Cornwall Park and am tired of looking like the bad guy when yappy, off-leash small dogs rush towards us and my dog growls, barks and challenges them seemingly aggressively. Young children and other dog walkers shouldn't have to be fearful of these little, off-leash, and quite frankly, out-of-control little dogs - come on, dog owners, act responsibly.
Sandra

Rave
In a Countdown carpark , three teenagers heard me say to my friend that I did not think I could get her walker out of my car as the adjacent car was too close. One of them came to help and manoeuvred it out for me. Greatly appreciated.
Pam

Rant
Perhaps those who have been clamped while parked in carparks designated as Disabled Car Parks should have the disability they are designated for.
Fellow amputee

Rave
Whilst my husband was shopping at Farmers Newmarket he had a sudden attack of vertigo and was unable to drive home. The staff contacted me and looked after him until I could arrange for him and the car to be collected. Special thanks to the young gentleman in the men's clothing department, the manager, security guard and even the carpark attendant who were so helpful. They even phoned the next day to check he was OK.
Wendy

Rant
Motorists, the joys of them on our roads. They moan we don't give them enough room on the road. Then they cry out loud if someone gets hit by a cyclist, but they run red lights, tailgate on motorways, overtake on blind corners and fail to check to see if pedestrians are on crossings. Motorists need to read the Road Code before they whine about cyclists.
Paul

Rave
Thanks to the hard workers giving Mt Albert Rd footpaths a beautiful facelift. They have been helpful, courteous, good communicators and even darted into traffic to retrieve my rubbish bin. Appreciation and a large chocolate bar was the least I could do.
Robyn