SANFORD, Fla. — Some dog owners in Sanford are voicing concerns and calling for enhanced safety measures at Paw Park, a popular off-leash dog park.

The Sanford Police Department reported it has responded to five separate incidents this year involving dogs and their owners.

Pet owner and local business owner Liliana Granger is among those advocating for additional security. With three dogs of her own and a pet care service, Dolce Dog Services, Granger has seen her share of dog park altercations.

Concerned about the potential dangers, she said she avoids Paw Park, instead opting for quieter, leash-only parks where she feels her pets are less at risk.

Granger explains that her business, which serves about 400 clients across Central Florida, centers on offering safe and reliable services for pets and their owners.

“The comfort level just isn’t there,” Granger said. “The thought of a dog getting hurt, or worse, ending up in a shelter or losing its life due to an altercation, is terrifying.”

The most recent incident at Paw Park occurred on Aug. 31, when a dispute between two women escalated after their dogs began showing aggressive behavior toward each other, according to police records. Earlier in August, police responded to a similar call involving a dog attacking another dog.

Robert Beall, the parks and grounds operations manager for the city of Sanford, stresses that park rules, such as prohibiting aggressive dogs, are in place to ensure the safety of dogs and their owners.

“It’s like a playground for kids,” Beall noted. “You expect your children to behave, and if there’s an issue, you intervene. The same expectations apply at the dog park.”

Paw Park is separated into two designated areas based on dog size, aiming to minimize risks between smaller and larger breeds.

However, Beall said that not all pet owners follow the guidelines, which can sometimes lead to avoidable incidents.

“Some larger dogs, though not all, may pose a risk to smaller dogs simply due to the nature of their play,” Beall explained. “This is why we have designated areas, to promote safer interactions.”

In light of recent incidents, Granger said she thinks installing cameras at the park could provide a safer environment by deterring inappropriate behavior and allowing authorities to respond to issues more effectively.

However, she said she believes responsible pet ownership is the most crucial factor.

“Being vigilant and present is key,” she said. “Engaging with other people at the park can help everyone look out for the dogs together, allowing for quick intervention, if needed.”

"Installing cameras would not prevent any attacks," Beall said. "Currently, the department does not have any funding to install cameras." 

For now, Granger prefers parks where her dogs can be kept away from others, giving her peace of mind.

“It’s better to be safe than sorry,” she added.

City officials said they continue to encourage park users to follow all posted rules and take responsibility for their pets’ behavior to ensure Paw Park remains a safe space for the community’s pets.