Yeah, this has been hashed out a zillion times here on this site and elsewhere, but I am sure with a little constructive conversation, we can get it all resolved this time
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Some dogs truly are special, well maybe not special (at least not in the eyes of a ranger), but especially well behaved with very conscientious owners. In these instances, I see no problems having a dog off leash once away from the busy parking lot.
Problem is though, is that everyone THINKS their dog is special, thinks that they are a responsible owner and many just simply do not care. It ruins it for those that do care and are responsible. As much as I would like there to be a regulation in place which punished poor behavior (with a ticket) and rewarded good behavior (the right to go off leash), I don't think that will happen any time soon. Boulder OSMP has a green tag program (which has some pros/cons and is changing somewhat in Jan. 2015), but generally works well. Dog owners watch a video (though soon will be required to attend a class) and pay a fee for the right to go off leash on designated trails. Though not a perfect system, I think this adds a level of responsibility and awareness.
However, it is simply much easier to throw down a blanket law "no dogs" or "dogs must be on leash" than to implement a well thought out, fair and sustainable solution.
My philosophy in these matters is "no harm, no foul" and regarding petty matters like leash laws is to follow the spirit of the law vs. the letter of the law. Most of us do it to a certain degree, driving 5 or 10 mph over the speed limit when conditions warrant, rolling stops when nobody is in sight, etc....
I am right on with Crestoner's comments below as well, there is bad behavior out there in all forms, perhaps we should implement laws to keep these ill behaved people contained, or on a leash at least