Citations ahead for off-leash dogs at Vic Mathias

Beginning later this month, the city of Austin will start issuing citations to pet owners who allow their dogs to roam free at Auditorium and Vic Mathias Shores outside of the new off-leash park, a 4.5-acre parcel of land created as part of the recent redevelopment of Auditorium Shores. According to an announcement from the Parks and Recreation Department, dog owners wishing to avoid a citation should stick to the “western end of Auditorium Shores,” where the new off-leash area provides three areas of access to the water and features a walking trail, open green spaces, drinking fountains and a dog shower. Thanks to the redevelopment, some areas of Auditorium Shores that were formerly designated as off-leash are now designated as on-leash. Although that change began officially in September, park users were given a four-month grace period to adjust to the changes. That grace period ends Monday, Jan. 25, at which time violators may be fined up to $500.