What does this have to do with dogs? Read this article to find out. The short version is:
"Toronto City Council has approved a controversial plan that will ban dogs from Kew-Balmy beach so it can meet the international Blue Flag standard."
There is some controversy in Council regarding this decision - some are suggesting that the problem isn't with dogs, but with birds.
It is also upsetting many locals who frequent this beach with their dogs. Here is a CL post regarding it (see pic). It has gone around the dogs email lists for the area as well.My opinion? If dog excrement weren't a problem than it wouldn't have come up in council and it wouldn't prevent Blue Flag from certifying these beaches. Obviously there is a problem with owners not cleaning up after their dogs (yes, this is an international problem).
If all owners pick up after their dogs than it wouldn't be a problem. But guess what? It's always going to be a problem because many owners don't.
There is also some controversy about urine and the safety of children playing where dogs may have relieved themselves.
You may be thinking: It's those asshat owners who are too lazy to pick up after their dogs it's their fault. Let me tell you something. Those owners are never going to go away so stop fooling yourselves.
What can we do? Well, if you are walking your dog and you see a pile - pick it up! Doesn't matter if it's your dog's or not. If you want to continue using these areas, than we all have to take responsibility to keep it clean. Yes, that means picking up after the asshats who can't be bothered just so you can continue to enjoy those off leash areas in your neighbourhood. It's unfortunate, but true.
What do you think?
Should dogs be allowed off leash at beaches where children can swim?
Should we as responsible dog owners pick up every pile we see since we have a bag anyway and it only takes a minute?
Should all dog owners be responsible for the sidewalks, parks and beaches where we walk our dogs?
5 comments:
Yes, they should.
Dog owners need to take responsibility for their dogs.
Oh, oh, I'm avoiding work, aGain..
Well, I will definately say no to 'off leash'. Probably not allowed on beaches with a leash either. There are so many places to walk your dogs. Even lakes that aren't for swimming that your dog can swim in.
Theres just to many irresponsible dog owners. If there were dirty diapers all over, then babies wouldn't be allowed either.
We agree with you. The owners need to take the responsibility for their dogs..
Big Sloppy Kisses
Gus, Louie and Callie
Glad I'm not alone in my thoughts :)
Saying 'they need to take responsibility', and them actually doing it are two different stories. It sucks for the rest of us, but thats just reality.
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