Vancouver dog parks may close over safety issues

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) – An organization that builds and maintains off-leash dog parks in southwestern Washington state says it could be forced to close the parks unless safety concerns are addressed.

KATU-TV reports the nonprofit Dogpaw might close down its four Vancouver-area parks after at least five dogs died from encounters at the properties last year.

The organization says the number of park visitors has increased, creating safety problems and leading to deadly fights. The organization estimates that more than 8,000 people visit the parks each week.

The organization is looking to work with city and Clark County officials to help contain the crowds.

County officials say they plan to provide more law enforcement officers to the parks under a plan they expect to implement by late August.

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Information from: KATU-TV, http://www.katu.com/