Dog walkers plan to take Jackson Park back from 'aggressive' youths

JennieBerkeley and her gentle German shepherd Rascal love walking in Jackson Park, but they say a group of "increasingly aggressive young boys" are harassing people in the park.

So Berkeley is planning a special walk this Saturday to take back the park.

"Lately there has been harassment of dogs, general rudeness and disrespect for other park patrons," said Berkeley. "Young men are aggressively kicking soccer balls and throwing sticks towards dogs."

The "abusive atmosphere" has become so toxic the pet owner has made two reports to police, but was told there isn't much officers can do.

She's worried that, unless things change, the situation could escalate and end with someone getting bitten.

"When these boys are aggressive and kicking the balls towards us my dog is going crazy," she explained. "He's barking really loudly as they keep getting closer with a hostile stance. It's not a good situation."

So Berkeley started a Facebookpage called Friends of Jackson Park and said at least 20 people and about 10 dogs are planning to join her Saturday evening in a show of solidarity.

"I think it's a great way for us as a community to say we value our parks and celebrate our canine companions," she said. "We want this situation to work for everyone."

The group plans to meet at the parking lot by Kennedy Collegiate secondary school around 6:30. The walk begins at 7 p.m.