Police Remind Park-Goers About Leash Laws

DENVER (CBS4) - Denver police are reminding dog owners they are not allowed to let their pets run free at Cheesman Park.

This year the city will finish $1.5 million in improvements to the park and with spring here more people are enjoying the park with their animals. But fines can hit $300 for dogs running free.

There can also be other problems. About 1/3 of all homeowners insurance liability claims come from dog bites.

"That adds up to about $400 million a year in claims paid out with an average claim upwards of $25,000," Carole Walker with Rocky Mountain Insurance Information said. "That takes a huge bite out of your insurance dollar."

Right after Monday morning's announcement police stopped and ticketed a man for letting his dog roam free at Cheesman Park.

There's a temporary dog park now open just five blocks away at Colfax and Josephine. Denver also has seven other permanent dog parks. Pets can roam free at Berkeley, Barnum, Kennedy, Fuller, Green Valley Ranch East, Stapleton and Railyard dog parks.