2 Children Bitten by Dogs in Rye Town Park; 'Leash Your Pets,' Cops Say

After two youngsters were bitten by dogs in Rye Town Park this past weekend, police and government officials are reminding residents to keep their pets on a leash.

Rye's city code requires all dogs be on a leash less than eight feet long at all times when not on their owner's propety—a law that applies to every local public space, including Rye Town Park.

"Although many residents and non-residents view Rye Town Park as a 'dog park,' it is not, and the rights of non-dog owners to the use and enjoyment of the park must be respected," said Rye's Police Commissioner William R. Connors.

"At this time of the year, warmer weather leads to greater use of the park by walkers, families, and children," he added. "Many are uncomfortable or fearful around dogs, and the potential for conflict between people and unrestrained pets increases."

Connors said going forward, park staff will warn anyone with an unleashed dog—and in some cases, a summons will be handed out.

Two the youngsters bitten were members of the same family, police told Patch, and the dogs belonged to the same owner. The bites broke skin and left uncture wounds, authorities added.