Thanks Logan. I NEVER let Cody or Star off lead unless we drive 2 miles out onto the sand flats at the beach at low tide so they can swim. Even the most "well behaved" and obedient of pups can have that one irresistable moment when they just have to "go!" Nothing is worth the potential for injury or worse. My elderly neighbor lost her beloved little mini poodle recently when she let him out one eveing for his last potty. He didn't run.....just stepped off the curb, a few yards into the road, and was killed by a car turning the corner. What was really sad, was the pup was 13 yrs. and in perfect health and full of vigor. What a tragedy. Her daughter just got her a new poodle pup yesterday. I am going to print your post and give it to her to further impress upon her the need to NEVER let the new puppy run free!