One local resident would like to see the Ladner Village Market become a dog-free zone.
Robyn Lougheed said she would like to see man's best friend banned from the market, which runs every second Sunday from June to September.
Lougheed, who owns a dog, said the market is not a dog-friendly event: it's crowded and, given that it is a street market, canines are forced to walk on hot pavement.
She said she is concerned for the welfare of dogs attending the market, as well as what could happen. A stressed, overheated dog could potentially bite someone, she said.
"I guess I got to a breaking point because of the heat we're having," she said.
"I know that even walking on hot pavement is enough to overheat my dog."
Delta Community Animal Shelter manager Sarah Jones agrees.
Jones said the shelter discourages dog owners from taking their furry friends to most outdoor markets or festivals.
"It's not just the Ladner market, it's all markets," she said.
The shelter went as far as posting a plea on its Facebook page earlier this summer, Jones said.
Being at a market-type event, which is crowded and busy, can be overwhelming for dogs.
Jones said crossing paths with other canines, combined with the temptation of foods and other things to compete over, could add to the tension and stress for dogs.
"You can't monitor your dog closely when you're distracted," she said.
Jones encourages owners to choose activities that are more dog-friendly, such as going to a dog park or the beach, or leave Fido at home.
Jones said the shelter does not have the power to ban animals from the market.
Tracy McKnight, one of the organizers of the Ladner Village Market, said the market has in the past recommended that people leave their furry friends at home.
"There is a majority of dog owners who would not bring their dog," McKnight said, adding some people choose to bring their canine instead of leaving it in the car.
"We certainly support those who choose to leave their dogs at home."
The popular market is now in its 19th year and typically attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year.
McKnight said there has never been an issue with a dog at the market.
The next edition of the Ladner Village Market takes place this Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. along 48th Avenue.
