Some East Patchogue residents say the lack of fencing at Mud Creek County Park creates a dangerous situation for their dogs.

The off-leash dog park at the location is not completely fenced in because of its natural boundaries – including thick brush and close access to the beach.

There is a fenced gate at the front entrance to the park, but there are also missing areas where fencing belongs. There are a total of four openings from the park to the street.

Resident Barbara DiGiuseppe says her dog got spooked one day and took off down the street by herself.

“Normally she listens to us, but she was panicked and she wasn't listening to us. She ran at top speed all the way home,” she told News 12.

Martha Gillette, the president of the South Country Community civic association, says the county needs to finish the incomplete fence section at the entrance and close up the other openings quickly.

“I'm pretty sure if they wanted to, they could get it done,” says Gillette.

The Suffolk County Parks Department released a statement saying: "Suffolk County has an ongoing dialogue with members of the community who overwhelmingly support this natural boundary dog park concept. While feedback has been extremely positive, we are very much aware of the need to make progress on the concerns that have been raised."