While walking with my toddler along Cambridge Dr. in Point Pleasant Park, I was disgusted by the amount of dog excrement left by thoughtless pet owners. I can think of no excuse for this. There are bags available at the Park entrance. Some might argue that their dogs are defacating when off the leash and out of their view, however, not only should dogs never be out of their owner’s sight in the park, but this particular area along Cambridge Dr. is designated as a leash zone, where dogs must be on lead.
So, dog owners must be watching their pets make a deposit, and then simply walking away. Essentially they are purposely leaving it for someone to step in, or a small child who doesn’t know any better to pick up with his bare hands!
It is unfortunate that I cannot allow my young son to run free in a public park for fear that he will encounter this sort of mess.
I’m sure the majority of dog owners pick up after their pets, and I understand what a treasure the Park is for dog owners. However, at some point, the rights of those of us without dogs who use the Park have to take priority.
I suggest that those of you who are not picking up after your dogs should start doing so. Furthermore, I might suggest that all dog owners pick up what they see, EVEN IF IT DID NOT COME FROM YOUR DOG. It is up to you to police yourselves.
By Paul Brushett
This article appears in Apr 20-26, 2006.