Dogs not allowed on national park beaches starting Thursday

Another sure sign of spring: Parks Canada officials saythe seasonal rule prohibiting domestic animals on P.E.I.National Park beaches comes into effect on April 1and will stay in place until Oct.15.

That includes dogs, catsand horses.

Parks Canada officials say the rule is in place to provide a safe environment for visitors and to protect wildlife and their habitat.

Anyone caught breaking this law faces a minimum fine of $100.

Dogs are permitted in all other outdoor areas of the park, but must be on a leash.

"It is important to know that dogs pose a threat to wildlife, especially young animals and birds, such as the endangered piping plover, that nest on the ground," Parks Canada's website says.

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