by Betty Tetreault
Communities that have a leash law should also provide an area where dogs can run and play, canine style, in a safe environment. It is neglectful and abusive to confine a dog at all times and is apt to create a mean and aggressive animal. Some people are able to walk for miles with their leashed dogs to expend their pent up energy, but what about those who cannot walk very far? The physical and mental benefits of dog ownership are clear, and for many single and elderly people, a dog offers great companionship and security. A balanced approach to accomodating dog owners in a public place would achieve higher colmpliance to relevant laws. When dog owners perceive the leash law to be unfair it may elicit a derfiant, rather than a compliant response, ignoring the law in protest. Designated areas where dogs can run and play off-leash would not only be beneficial to the dog owners, but to the community as well.
All who are interested in ths subject are encouraged to attend the Selectmen's meeting on Monday, February 22nd, 7:00 pm when a proposal for a dog park will be brought to the selectmen for their approval.