let the city designate a couple of dog parks, then enforce the "no dogs" rule at the other parks. Believe it or not, not everyone loves dogs and sometimes it is nice to go somewhere you know no dogs (and their annoying owners) will be.
I am glad you took the time to add your opinion as a non dog lover .
as rebuttal , research has show that designated areas , times, on leash and off leash for dog walking spaces within reasonable walking distance of City residences (1mile or so) are a more effective control of separating your time at the parks and dog people who use the parks. Dog people like to mingle with each other. There are also people who do not own dogs because of their lifestyle but enjoy watching and mingling with dogs.Dog walkers self police so that they get along and are able to keep their spaces if spaces are reasonable . It also gives people who do not like dogs , the times and areas to avoid.
Establishing reasonable control of designated areas (many), will NOT increase the amount of dogs in the areas that you see now people taking their dogs .
Yes Kate - while you may feel you should be able to go to all city parks that would be dog free, I in turn feel that I would like to be able to go to any city park with my dog on leash in certain areas and certain times so that you can avoid the dogs in that manner. I fail to see the reasoning where you think your need for a dog free park overrides my need for all city parks to be dog friendly within certain guidelines. I am not referring to a specific park for dogs, but rather just to all parks in general in this comment. Can't we find the way to all get along and meet the needs of all that wish to use the park - Kate, why would one user get their way over another user? For example I could say "Believe it or not, not everyone loves children and sometimes it is nice to go somewhere you know no children (and their annoying owners) will be." I love children, but could you imagine me saying that? ...And if I really felt that way would you agree Kate?
-Mary
I don't agree with you, kateshaw. Most people enjoy seeing my dog and most children love interacting with my dog.
The leash law already exists to protect people like you. We don't need any more restrictions due to the irrational fears of a small minority.
Regardless of the ordinance, I have taken my dogs to parks frequently and usually receive a warm welcome from non-dog owners. I keep my distance from anyone who shows any signs of disdain. It's worked for me and non-dog owners for years at Homes Field on Plantation and March streets.
In summary, any effort you can make to COEXIST PEACEFULLY with the rest of the taxpayers in this city would be greatly appreciated.
While I certainly respect the fact that not everyone likes to be around dogs, enforcing a leash law in all city parks is the solution that enables me to walk my dog in a public area that should be available for use and enjoyment of all citizens (not just those without dogs), while also enabling me to maintain control of my dog so that you and others aren't bothered by our shared use.
Please create an account or log in to submit your comments or vote on those submitted by other users.
The ideas and opinions expressed by registered users of this forum are those of the authors
and do not reflect the opinions of
the City of Worcester, MA.