Dog Attack At Tamaques Park Has Westfield Officials Considering Tougher Leash Law Enforcement

WESTFIELD, NJ — A dog attack at Tamaques Park has Westfield officials looking at ways to strengthen leash law enforcement after an unleashed dog injured another dog, according to Mayor Jeremy Berman.

In his weekly update to residents, Berman said the incident has prompted the town to consider additional measures aimed at preventing similar situations while reminding dog owners that pets must be leashed whenever they are off their own property.

Among the options being considered are increasing the current $50 fine for leash law violations, adding more signage throughout Tamaques Park, installing cameras in the park and increasing police presence in the area as resources allow.

“Given this week’s incident at Tamaques Park where an unleashed dog attacked and injured a leashed dog, we expect all residents to comply with the leash law,” Berman said.

Westfield's leash law requires dogs to be on a leash whenever they are not on their owner's property.

Berman said residents who encounter an unleashed dog should contact the Westfield Police Department, which can take a report and, if appropriate, forward the information to the Board of Health.

He also encouraged residents to document incidents if it can be done safely.

“If you can safely do so, take a photo of the dog and its owner, as that documentation helps police enforce the law,” Berman said.

Town officials did not release additional details about the dogs involved, the extent of the injuries or whether any summonses were issued.

For now, the town is continuing to evaluate the proposed enforcement measures as officials consider ways to improve safety at Tamaques Park.