Many dog owners see leash laws as a way to protect people. However, leash laws exist to protect pets, too. Whether you agree with a local law about leashes or not, all dog owners must abide by these restrictions. Leash laws vary from community to community. The state of California does not have any laws that govern normal dog ownership activities, such as walking. In some communities, you may only need to prove that you have voice control over your dog, while other areas require that all dogs wear leashes in public areas. Riverside County Areas Where Leashes Are Not Required Throughout the state, you will find parks, lakes and areas where you do not have to leash your dog, even if the city or county has leash laws. You do not need to leash your pooch: Within a fenced-in backyard In a designated off-leash area, such as a park or neighborhood In a dog park designed for pet socialization. Here’s a list of dog parks in Riverside. In Riverside Areas that Leashes are Required If you walk a dog in a public or private area that allows dogs within Riverside County, the dog must wear a handheld leash that does not measure longer…