Rebecca Riddell, the owner of Bark Buddies Toronto, expressed her frustrations, stating: "I'm really upset with the way that it's come about because we weren't included in the discussion whatsoever. It appears that only the immediate residents of the area were included in the discussion. We were completely kept in the dark and this decision was moved forward without our opinions. It’s really bad for my business because we don’t have anywhere else to go."
Despite the city's decision, Riddell has mobilized support, stating: "I have started a petition to have the ban reversed. Nearly 1,000 people have signed it, which proposes that commercial dog walkers be allowed to access the park between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. This compromise aims to address the noise concerns while allowing us necessary access during less disruptive hours."
The complaints leading to the ban were primarily about noise, highlighted by local councillor Coun. Dianne Saxe, who stated: "The motion brought forth in city council addressed community concerns regarding disturbances. We took into account the feedback from local residents which prompted this decision to restrict commercial dog walking in Ramsden Park."
Riddell emphasized the broader implications of the decision, claiming: "The petition states this ban is 'unjust, unfounded, and negatively impacts our community and local businesses.' It’s essential for dog walkers to be part of the solution, not excluded from it."
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