Backlash followed a photo of Banff National Park's superintendent with his dog off-leash on the Tunnel Mountain trail, especially since visitors face steep penalties for the same violation.
Parks Canada said it investigated the event and closed the case, TheTravel reported.
Here's what to know
The photo, taken in September and published by the Rocky Mountain Outlook, showed Sal Rasheed walking his dog off-leash, which violates a park rule designed to protect visitors and wildlife.
People who break that rule can face a penalty of up to 25,000 Canadian dollars ($17,675).
The Outlook shared the photo after a visitor submitted it, prompting concerns that park officials are not held to the same standards as the public.
Rasheed told CBC News that the episode was an "isolated lapse in judgment."
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He added that his "commitment to Parks Canada's mandate remains unchanged" and that "it has reinforced the importance of leading by example."
Parks Canada didn't disclose whether Rasheed was fined or charged.
More background
Banff is home to bears, elk, and other wildlife, and leash rules serve a broader purpose than simple trail etiquette.
Even well-trained dogs can chase, disturb, or provoke animals, creating risks for hikers, wildlife, and the pets themselves.
In July, video showed two Washington tourists and their off-leash dog being followed by a grizzly known as Bear 142 on a Banff trail, the outlets noted. Parks Canada filed charges, and Brook Koski was fined CA$1,5000 ($1,058).
Visitors are routinely reminded to follow the rules in a place known for dramatic views and wildlife encounters. When the park's own superintendent breaks one of those rules, it can harm public trust.
The leash requirement also protects the ecosystem, not just people and wildlife.
What's being done?
Parks Canada said park rules apply equally to everyone, though CBC News reported that Rasheed had not been charged as of Oct. 8.
"Visitors and residents rightly expect that these rules apply equally to everyone, and Parks Canada fully agrees," the agency stated, per the Outlook. "With a commitment to upholding this same standard, Parks Canada has completed an investigation, and the matter is now considered closed."
On Monday, the Outlook reported Rasheed would not be charged.
"As with other investigations, Parks Canada is unable to provide further details on the investigation," Jennifer Burnell, a spokesperson in Parks Canada's national media office, told the outlet in an email.
Keeping dogs leashed reduces the risk of an animal chase, a wildlife reaction, or a dangerous encounter involving people.
As far as enforcement action goes, parkgoers can be banned in addition to being fined.
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