The following information is from the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. It may seem a little long but its meaning is concise and clear:
The following is a brief excerpt from the Board of Health proceeding archives:
Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Board of Health Notice of Adoption of Amendments to Sections 161.03, 161.04 and 161.05 of The New York City Health Code
STATEMENT OF BASIS AND PURPOSE
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (the “Department”) is authorized and required by law to promote and protect the health and safety of New York City residents and visitors by ensuring an environment free from animal-borne diseases and hazards, as well as those caused by other vectors. Article 161 contains various provisions related to issues of public health concern in ownership and management of animals in the City of New York.
The Department enforces provisions of the New York City Health Code (the “Health Code”), the Administrative Code of the City of New York and the New York State Sanitary Code related to investigating reports of animal bites and rabies; managing wild, vicious and/or dangerous animals; licensing and regulating working horses and dogs, and companion dogs; and issuing animal exhibition permits. The Department inspects and issues permits for facilities where animals are sold, adopted, held, groomed, trained, boarded and sheltered. The Department monitors the City’s contract for animal care and control services, investigates animal nuisance complaints and cooperates with all government and voluntary agencies involved in the care and control of animals.
The Department enforces provisions of the New York City Health Code (the “Health Code”), the Administrative Code of the City of New York and the New York State Sanitary Code related to investigating reports of animal bites and rabies; managing wild, vicious and/or dangerous animals; licensing and regulating working horses and dogs, and companion dogs; and issuing animal exhibition permits. The Department inspects and issues permits for facilities where animals are sold, adopted, held, groomed, trained, boarded and sheltered. The Department monitors the City’s contract for animal care and control services, investigates animal nuisance complaints and cooperates with all government and voluntary agencies involved in the care and control of animals.
New York State and New York City animal control laws are intended to safeguard the health and safety of the public. In addition to having their dogs actively vaccinated against the disease of rabies, responsible dog owners must obtain a license (New York City Dog License Law, Ch. 115 of the Laws of 1894, as amended); attach a dog license tag to the dog’s collar when the animal is in a public place (see, Health Code §161.04); hold the dog on a leash no longer than six feet when the dog is in a public place (see, Health Code §161.05); and remove their dog’s feces from anypublic areas (see, Health Code §161.03 and New York Public Health Law §1310).
Licensing companion dogs is increasingly seen as an important indicator of responsible dog ownership, reducing the numbers of strays, biting incidents and homeless, unwanted animal over- population. It enables owners of stray dogs to be more easily be identified so that lost dogs may be returned to their owners. It makes it possible for the Department to identify and control biting and dangerous dogs, and to control rabies.
* * * * * * * * * *
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene - Office of Veterinary Public Health Services
The Office of Veterinary Public Health Services' mission is to promote and protect the health of New York City residents and visitors by ensuring an environment free from animal-borne diseases, hazards and nuisances by controlling and regulating animals. VPHS's goals are to:
1. Prevent the transmission of zoonotic diseases from animals to people
2. Reduce animal nuisances
To accomplish these goals, the Program will employ the following strategies:
Education and Community Outreach
• Provide printed materials, mailings, and public seminars in collaboration with External Affairs and other Department of Health offices.
• Teach animal handling courses and the Horse Drawn Carriage Operator's Course.
Monitoring, Surveillance and Tracking
• Collect data on animal bites, rabies vaccinations and animal sheltering statistics, and other meaningful occurrences to identify trends which support animal control.
• Responding to Complaints regarding animal nuisances.
Enforcement
• Inspect facilities; issue violations; hold hearings; issue commissioner's orders to abate and/or surrender animals which pose a danger to humans; and enforce City mandates/codes for working animals.
Regulation
• Issue permits, licenses and training certificates.
• Animal Care and Control - Contract for animal care, shelter and control.
• Compendium of Measures To Prevent Disease Associated with Animals in Public Settings
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Friday, October 27, 2006
Another injured dog
There was another off-leash dog attack at Juniper on Saturday, October 21st. A shepherd mix off its leash attacked a beagle on a leash and seriously injured him. The owner took responsibility and accompanied the beagle's owners to the vet and offered to pay the bill. The dog lost part of his ear and needed many stitches. The owner of the off-leash dog said he only had the dog for two months, and that he didn't "own" it, but was acting as a foster owner until a permanent owner could be found. This illustrates the point that there are no controls over who is allowing their dogs offleash and that dog behavior isn't predictable. The owner of the dog pulled his car into the park, loaded the injured beagle into it and rushed him to the vet. He didn't have time to file a police report, and it wouldn't have mattered anyway considering that one dog attacking another doesn't "count" as per the NYPD, the Department of Health and the Department of Parks and Recreation.
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Letter to Councilman Yassky
To: David Yassky
Date: 10/25/06 7:05 PM
Councilman Yassky,
I am writing to you with regard to an article published in the New York Daily News, 25 October, 2006, entitled "Council on trans fats ban-wagon". In the article it is written:
"Meanwhile, in another bid to win a race against the Board of Health, Councilman David Yassky (D-Brooklyn) plans to introduce a bill today that would allow dogs off the leash in city parks between 9 p.m. and 9 a.m.
"The Board of Health will hear public testimony on the same proposal next week."
"We want to make sure that this isn't subject to the vagaries of regulations," Yassky said. "I have a lot of constituents who enjoy off-leash hours, and it makes the parks more accessible." ..."
Attached you'll find a series of photos, the majority of which were taken on a single morning in Prospect Park (check the timestamps). As noted on the photos, these are just a few of the many dog owners who let their dogs run anywhere in the park, not just in the "off leash" areas. In addition, unleashed dogs can be found just about anywhere and at anytime in Prospect Park. Enforcement of any laws, be it the existing leash laws or the "courtesy hours", is virtually non-existent. In addition to this letter, you will find many more photos, articles, letters and informational links at this website:
http://brooklynparks.blogspot.com
I assume that, as a successful politician, you have had many noteworthy accomplishments in your career. If your resolution passes, given the escalating free-for-all of unleashed dogs in Prospect Park, a child will inevitably be mauled. Your legacy as a councilman will become that of the politician who yielded to a small special interest group in lieu of the public's health and welfare.
There are currently 1.5 million dogs in New York City. Of that amount only 84,547 (DOHMH, Citywide Accountability Program, April 2006) are registered and licensed. That adds up to 5.6% of total dogs. Who are you proposing will monitor dogs for a valid license as they arrive in parks during offleash hours? Who will pay for the extra costs?
Keeping one's dog(s) on a leash in public places is endorsed by no less than the ASPCA, the Humane Society, the American Kennel Club and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. I appeal to your responsibility for ALL of your constituents to rethink this irresponsible and costly proposal.
Respectfully
Date: 10/25/06 7:05 PM
Councilman Yassky,
I am writing to you with regard to an article published in the New York Daily News, 25 October, 2006, entitled "Council on trans fats ban-wagon". In the article it is written:
"Meanwhile, in another bid to win a race against the Board of Health, Councilman David Yassky (D-Brooklyn) plans to introduce a bill today that would allow dogs off the leash in city parks between 9 p.m. and 9 a.m.
"The Board of Health will hear public testimony on the same proposal next week."
"We want to make sure that this isn't subject to the vagaries of regulations," Yassky said. "I have a lot of constituents who enjoy off-leash hours, and it makes the parks more accessible." ..."
Attached you'll find a series of photos, the majority of which were taken on a single morning in Prospect Park (check the timestamps). As noted on the photos, these are just a few of the many dog owners who let their dogs run anywhere in the park, not just in the "off leash" areas. In addition, unleashed dogs can be found just about anywhere and at anytime in Prospect Park. Enforcement of any laws, be it the existing leash laws or the "courtesy hours", is virtually non-existent. In addition to this letter, you will find many more photos, articles, letters and informational links at this website:
http://brooklynparks.blogspot.com
I assume that, as a successful politician, you have had many noteworthy accomplishments in your career. If your resolution passes, given the escalating free-for-all of unleashed dogs in Prospect Park, a child will inevitably be mauled. Your legacy as a councilman will become that of the politician who yielded to a small special interest group in lieu of the public's health and welfare.
There are currently 1.5 million dogs in New York City. Of that amount only 84,547 (DOHMH, Citywide Accountability Program, April 2006) are registered and licensed. That adds up to 5.6% of total dogs. Who are you proposing will monitor dogs for a valid license as they arrive in parks during offleash hours? Who will pay for the extra costs?
Keeping one's dog(s) on a leash in public places is endorsed by no less than the ASPCA, the Humane Society, the American Kennel Club and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. I appeal to your responsibility for ALL of your constituents to rethink this irresponsible and costly proposal.
Respectfully
Monday, October 23, 2006
Familiar scenario
Here's a link to an article about problems with unleashed dogs in Golden Gate National Park. The scenario sounds strangely familiar.
-Golden Gate National Park dog leash dispute halted-
-Golden Gate National Park dog leash dispute halted-
Sunday, October 22, 2006
New York Post article
The following article was in today's New York Post. If the allegations prove true it would make me skeptical about the accuracy of other data collected by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
'Shelter' Slap at Frieden
By ANGElA MONTEFINISE
New York Post, Oct 22, page 20
Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Frieden once demanded that a negative report on the city's animal shelters be "fudged," says a whistle-blowing former shelters boss. Frieden, who doubles as board chairman of the Center for Animal Care and Control, asked Ed Boks, executive director at ACC from January 2004 to December 2005, to "smooth over" a consultant's report on the system, Boks alleges in a bombshell court affadavit.
The consultant found that Department of Health inspectors didn't accurately report deplorable conditions in the shelters, and to prove his point, juxtaposed photos of hazardous conditions at the shelters with city inspection reports claiming the facilities were fine.
When Boks attempted to report his own findings on the matter to the mayor - he said he "wanted to write that DOH falsified reports" - Frieden "told me to use kinder language and smooth it over." Boks' affadavit was submitted as part of a lawsuit against ACC filed in June by an animal-welfare group alleging mismanagement at ACC.
The city has filed a motion to dismiss the suit. The DOH said it does not comment on ongoing litigation. Boks, who nows works as general manager of Los Angeles Animal Services, called Frieden a "detriment" to ACC's mission.
Boks also said the agency's "sloppy" and. "incompetent" record-keeping led to "grossly inaccurate" statistics on the numbers of euthanizations and adoptions and called ACC's problems "systemic."
'Shelter' Slap at Frieden
By ANGElA MONTEFINISE
New York Post, Oct 22, page 20
Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Frieden once demanded that a negative report on the city's animal shelters be "fudged," says a whistle-blowing former shelters boss. Frieden, who doubles as board chairman of the Center for Animal Care and Control, asked Ed Boks, executive director at ACC from January 2004 to December 2005, to "smooth over" a consultant's report on the system, Boks alleges in a bombshell court affadavit.
The consultant found that Department of Health inspectors didn't accurately report deplorable conditions in the shelters, and to prove his point, juxtaposed photos of hazardous conditions at the shelters with city inspection reports claiming the facilities were fine.
When Boks attempted to report his own findings on the matter to the mayor - he said he "wanted to write that DOH falsified reports" - Frieden "told me to use kinder language and smooth it over." Boks' affadavit was submitted as part of a lawsuit against ACC filed in June by an animal-welfare group alleging mismanagement at ACC.
The city has filed a motion to dismiss the suit. The DOH said it does not comment on ongoing litigation. Boks, who nows works as general manager of Los Angeles Animal Services, called Frieden a "detriment" to ACC's mission.
Boks also said the agency's "sloppy" and. "incompetent" record-keeping led to "grossly inaccurate" statistics on the numbers of euthanizations and adoptions and called ACC's problems "systemic."
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Dog parks have the fur flying in some cities
(Originally published in the "Rocky Mountain News", I found this on "Dogster, For the Love of Dogs")
Leash-free areas fetch both fans, detractors as pet ownership grows
David Kohl © AP
August 19, 2006
DAYTON, Ohio - Iggy and Bear, two small, mixed-breed dogs, are racing through tunnels on the agility course and watering the trees at the city's new dog park as their owners beam. "This is fantastic," said Bonnie Maschino, Iggy's owner. "If he can come here and run loose, he gets better exercise than walking with me on a leash." Dog parks have multiplied around the country, from 20 in 1995 to more than 600 today, to the delight of frolicking, unleashed pets and the consternation of opponents who fear wear and tear on property, dog fights or even deaths and loss of green space.
In Boulder, large dogs have killed smaller dogs at the parks. Pit bulls have been banned from dog parks in Nashville, Tenn., because they attacked other dogs. A proposal to set aside canine space in a Philadelphia park was roundly rejected by residents reluctant to allow a portion of the historic, heavily used property to go to the dogs.
Matt Claussen, a park ranger in Boulder, said putting a lot of dogs together in a fenced-in area can create a pack mentality.
"It can be very intimidating. I know of one where people won't go anymore because they say it is so scary," Claussen said. "It's a great idea. It works out great for exercise and sociability. But I think it's turned into a free-for-all."
Dog parks are a product of increasing dog ownership, growing recognition that exercise and socializing can reduce canine misbehavior, and the lure of rubbing elbows with fellow dog lovers.
About 43.5 million U.S. households own at least one dog, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association.
That's up from about 35 million in 1990.
Bob Vetere, president of the association, believes the popularity of dog parks will continue to grow as aging baby boomers buy dogs to cope with empty-nest syndrome.
The Dayton park opened in July, offering separate sections for large dogs and small dogs. There are tunnels, hurdles, wading pools and drinking bowls for the dogs, and tents and chairs for their owners. Other dog parks feature ponds, walking paths, fire hydrants, dog showers and lights.
In some cases, the parks are being built because of complaints about dogs.
Columbus is building four - the first in the city - after hearing that unleashed dogs in city parks were fighting, disrupting soccer games and tearing up flower beds.
"Dog issues by far and away are our most frequent complaint in our parks," said Mark Young, assistant director of the Columbus Department of Recreation and Parks. "It's off the chart." Dog parks especially resonate in large cities, where there are numerous apartment dwellers, and many people can't afford homes with large fenced-in yards.
But dog parks aren't welcomed everywhere.
In Philadelphia, a community group voted by more than 3-to-1 in March against opening a dog park in Clark Park, nine acres of green space near the University of Pennsylvania that was established in the late 1800s. Studded with majestic sycamore trees and ringed by stately Victorian houses, the park has a statue of Charles Dickens and was the site of a Civil War hospital that treated wounded soldiers from the Battle of Gettysburg.
Some residents argued that a fenced-in area for dogs is needed because dog fighting had increased, some of the animals scared small children, and not all dog droppings were being scooped up.
Opponents said a dog park would gobble up valuable space used by people, and might destroy grass and trees and result in a high concentration of dog waste.
Creation of the parks has created controversy among some dog owners as well.
After Nashville banned pit bulls from its three dog parks in April, pit bull owners countered that the new rule was discriminatory.
"We knew it would not be a popular decision," said Jackie Jones, superintendent of community affairs for Metro Parks.
Once the dog parks are built in Columbus - probably within 18 months - people won't be able to let their dogs run off-leash in the public parks. Dog owners voiced their opposition to that rule during two years of hearings.
Vincent Volpi, 51, of Columbus, said dog parks are an unnecessary expense to taxpayers. He favors a leash law so dogs are under control in public parks.
"Every park in Columbus is effectively a dog park," he said.
Volpi said he was nipped by a small dog while talking on his cell phone in a park last month and that his 3-year-old daughter has been accosted by dogs in the park.
"They're being friendly, but these dogs are bigger than her," he said. "Now she's scared to death of dogs."
Patrick Murphy, a Boulder-based plant ecologist who runs a small environmental consulting company, campaigned for several years against letting dogs run loose on nature trails in the Boulder area, saying they trampled vegetation and their droppings killed native vegetation and invited weeds. He used a global positioning device to pinpoint 1,492 piles of dog waste on one mile of a trail.
Murphy favors dog parks but said the animals are hard on them.
He said some dog parks in Boulder once had nice tall grass and now are mostly dirt and gravel.
"They're going to be fairly high maintenance," he said.
Despite some controversy, the parks are popular among dog owners who use them. Some dog lovers drink their lattes and chat among themselves or on cell phones while watching their dogs play.
"When you come, it's automatic social time and there is always something to talk about," said Maschino, 54, of Dayton. "It's a show every time."
Fun for Fido
Dog parks have grown in popularity around the country, from 20 in 1995 to more than 600 today.
• What are they? Fenced-in areas with agility courses, tunnels, hurdles, wading pools and other amenities so dogs can run free and play together.
• Downside: Dogfights, loss of green space in existing parks, wear and tear on the property and sometimes an expense to taxpayers.
Leash-free areas fetch both fans, detractors as pet ownership grows
David Kohl © AP
August 19, 2006
DAYTON, Ohio - Iggy and Bear, two small, mixed-breed dogs, are racing through tunnels on the agility course and watering the trees at the city's new dog park as their owners beam. "This is fantastic," said Bonnie Maschino, Iggy's owner. "If he can come here and run loose, he gets better exercise than walking with me on a leash." Dog parks have multiplied around the country, from 20 in 1995 to more than 600 today, to the delight of frolicking, unleashed pets and the consternation of opponents who fear wear and tear on property, dog fights or even deaths and loss of green space.
In Boulder, large dogs have killed smaller dogs at the parks. Pit bulls have been banned from dog parks in Nashville, Tenn., because they attacked other dogs. A proposal to set aside canine space in a Philadelphia park was roundly rejected by residents reluctant to allow a portion of the historic, heavily used property to go to the dogs.
Matt Claussen, a park ranger in Boulder, said putting a lot of dogs together in a fenced-in area can create a pack mentality.
"It can be very intimidating. I know of one where people won't go anymore because they say it is so scary," Claussen said. "It's a great idea. It works out great for exercise and sociability. But I think it's turned into a free-for-all."
Dog parks are a product of increasing dog ownership, growing recognition that exercise and socializing can reduce canine misbehavior, and the lure of rubbing elbows with fellow dog lovers.
About 43.5 million U.S. households own at least one dog, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association.
That's up from about 35 million in 1990.
Bob Vetere, president of the association, believes the popularity of dog parks will continue to grow as aging baby boomers buy dogs to cope with empty-nest syndrome.
The Dayton park opened in July, offering separate sections for large dogs and small dogs. There are tunnels, hurdles, wading pools and drinking bowls for the dogs, and tents and chairs for their owners. Other dog parks feature ponds, walking paths, fire hydrants, dog showers and lights.
In some cases, the parks are being built because of complaints about dogs.
Columbus is building four - the first in the city - after hearing that unleashed dogs in city parks were fighting, disrupting soccer games and tearing up flower beds.
"Dog issues by far and away are our most frequent complaint in our parks," said Mark Young, assistant director of the Columbus Department of Recreation and Parks. "It's off the chart." Dog parks especially resonate in large cities, where there are numerous apartment dwellers, and many people can't afford homes with large fenced-in yards.
But dog parks aren't welcomed everywhere.
In Philadelphia, a community group voted by more than 3-to-1 in March against opening a dog park in Clark Park, nine acres of green space near the University of Pennsylvania that was established in the late 1800s. Studded with majestic sycamore trees and ringed by stately Victorian houses, the park has a statue of Charles Dickens and was the site of a Civil War hospital that treated wounded soldiers from the Battle of Gettysburg.
Some residents argued that a fenced-in area for dogs is needed because dog fighting had increased, some of the animals scared small children, and not all dog droppings were being scooped up.
Opponents said a dog park would gobble up valuable space used by people, and might destroy grass and trees and result in a high concentration of dog waste.
Creation of the parks has created controversy among some dog owners as well.
After Nashville banned pit bulls from its three dog parks in April, pit bull owners countered that the new rule was discriminatory.
"We knew it would not be a popular decision," said Jackie Jones, superintendent of community affairs for Metro Parks.
Once the dog parks are built in Columbus - probably within 18 months - people won't be able to let their dogs run off-leash in the public parks. Dog owners voiced their opposition to that rule during two years of hearings.
Vincent Volpi, 51, of Columbus, said dog parks are an unnecessary expense to taxpayers. He favors a leash law so dogs are under control in public parks.
"Every park in Columbus is effectively a dog park," he said.
Volpi said he was nipped by a small dog while talking on his cell phone in a park last month and that his 3-year-old daughter has been accosted by dogs in the park.
"They're being friendly, but these dogs are bigger than her," he said. "Now she's scared to death of dogs."
Patrick Murphy, a Boulder-based plant ecologist who runs a small environmental consulting company, campaigned for several years against letting dogs run loose on nature trails in the Boulder area, saying they trampled vegetation and their droppings killed native vegetation and invited weeds. He used a global positioning device to pinpoint 1,492 piles of dog waste on one mile of a trail.
Murphy favors dog parks but said the animals are hard on them.
He said some dog parks in Boulder once had nice tall grass and now are mostly dirt and gravel.
"They're going to be fairly high maintenance," he said.
Despite some controversy, the parks are popular among dog owners who use them. Some dog lovers drink their lattes and chat among themselves or on cell phones while watching their dogs play.
"When you come, it's automatic social time and there is always something to talk about," said Maschino, 54, of Dayton. "It's a show every time."
Fun for Fido
Dog parks have grown in popularity around the country, from 20 in 1995 to more than 600 today.
• What are they? Fenced-in areas with agility courses, tunnels, hurdles, wading pools and other amenities so dogs can run free and play together.
• Downside: Dogfights, loss of green space in existing parks, wear and tear on the property and sometimes an expense to taxpayers.
Interesting blog posting
I just ran across a cyclist's interesting blog. He has one posting about an unfortunately encounter between someone riding a horse and an unleashed dog. It elicited many sympathetic responses. Please note that I would never endorse some of the proposed solutions:
-Read "Lock-N-Load"-
-Read "Lock-N-Load"-
West Nile and Zoonotic Diseases
According to the Department of Health, there were 59 cases of West Nile Virus in humans in NYC in 1999.
There have been a total of 137 cases of West Nile Virus in NYC since 1999, with only 11 reported in 2005.
The main reasons for the drop in cases in our area, while it has been spread across the country, are the preventive measures taken. Screening of animals and people, spraying of pesticides. These measures continue despite the significant dropoff in disease incidence.
http://www.ci.nyc.ny.us/html/doh/downloads/pdf/wnv/wnvplan2006.pdf
"Key to DOHMH’s planning efforts is a primary emphasis on prevention."
"Canine waste is a known source of several pernicious zoonotic diseases." - Department of Parks and Recreation
However, when it comes to dogs, known vectors of disease via their bites and feces, DOH is considering allowing them to run around loose. Apparently, 86 people being hurt in parks and 3,956 total bites citywide in 2005 is not considered an epidemic, or even alarming. No action is being taken except one that will put more people at risk.
There have been a total of 137 cases of West Nile Virus in NYC since 1999, with only 11 reported in 2005.
The main reasons for the drop in cases in our area, while it has been spread across the country, are the preventive measures taken. Screening of animals and people, spraying of pesticides. These measures continue despite the significant dropoff in disease incidence.
http://www.ci.nyc.ny.us/html/doh/downloads/pdf/wnv/wnvplan2006.pdf
"Key to DOHMH’s planning efforts is a primary emphasis on prevention."
"Canine waste is a known source of several pernicious zoonotic diseases." - Department of Parks and Recreation
However, when it comes to dogs, known vectors of disease via their bites and feces, DOH is considering allowing them to run around loose. Apparently, 86 people being hurt in parks and 3,956 total bites citywide in 2005 is not considered an epidemic, or even alarming. No action is being taken except one that will put more people at risk.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Responsible dog ownership program
The following program will be held at Brooklyn Law School. I kind of wonder about the timing:
New York State Bar Association's Special Committee on Animals and the Law in cooperation with the Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals and the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
- PRESENTS -
Dangerous Dogs or Irresponsible Owners
Date:
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Time:
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Location:
Brooklyn Law School
Subotnick Conference Center (11th Floor)
250 Joralemon Street
Brooklyn, New York
Registration fee:
$25
Program Description:
In cooperation with the New York State Bar Association's Special Committee and Animals and the Law, the Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals and the ASPCA present this important program.
This program will provide attendees an understanding of New York's Dangerous Dog laws and the various approaches to addressing dog bites including breed specific legislation and its pitfalls. We urge anyone interested in community safety and responsible dog ownership to attend particularly those involved in law enforcement, government officials, shelter and rescue staff as well as the legal community.
New York State Bar Association's Special Committee on Animals and the Law in cooperation with the Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals and the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
- PRESENTS -
Dangerous Dogs or Irresponsible Owners
Date:
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Time:
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Location:
Brooklyn Law School
Subotnick Conference Center (11th Floor)
250 Joralemon Street
Brooklyn, New York
Registration fee:
$25
Program Description:
In cooperation with the New York State Bar Association's Special Committee and Animals and the Law, the Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals and the ASPCA present this important program.
This program will provide attendees an understanding of New York's Dangerous Dog laws and the various approaches to addressing dog bites including breed specific legislation and its pitfalls. We urge anyone interested in community safety and responsible dog ownership to attend particularly those involved in law enforcement, government officials, shelter and rescue staff as well as the legal community.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
FIDO shoots bogus video
At 9:35am today my friend Mary called me on my cellphone. She was walking through Prospect Park on her way to work and encountered a film crew. She approached the group to ask if they were shooting a movie. They told her that they were shooting some dogs. At that point a Great Dane that had been running around in the woods came bounding out of the trees and onto the grass at the Sparrow Bowl. She said, "How about that one". They ignored her. The time was approximately 9:30am.
She recognized one of the people in the group as being the head of FIDO. Apparently, the group is desperately trying to create a positive spin on the unleashed dog problem in Prospect Park. Mary also mentioned that due to the poor weather conditions in the morning and the time (it was after the 9am courtesy hours) there weren't that many unleashed dogs still around.
These people will go to any lengths to counter the truth and the damning photographs and videos that I've been accumulating. If they shot the piece in video I'd like to see the time codes on the master tapes.
She recognized one of the people in the group as being the head of FIDO. Apparently, the group is desperately trying to create a positive spin on the unleashed dog problem in Prospect Park. Mary also mentioned that due to the poor weather conditions in the morning and the time (it was after the 9am courtesy hours) there weren't that many unleashed dogs still around.
These people will go to any lengths to counter the truth and the damning photographs and videos that I've been accumulating. If they shot the piece in video I'd like to see the time codes on the master tapes.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Dog Park Article
Here's an excellent article by a dog lover who opposes dog runs:
-DOG PARKS. A Politically Incorrect View-
-DOG PARKS. A Politically Incorrect View-
Prospect Park "Courtesy" Rules
Below is taken from the Prospect Park website. This is perfectly clear, right? Does this also mean that if the Board of Health passes the proposal that the department of parks can change all the times to 5pm? Who determines when a dog is "under control"? If the "courtesy" hours are at night, how is dog waste disposed of properly?
Off-Leash Hours
April 1 to October 31
· 9 p.m.- 9 a.m.: Long Meadow, Nethermead and Peninsula
· 5 - 9 p.m. Monday through Friday only: Nethermead
November 1 to March 31
· 5 - 9 a.m.: Long Meadow, Nethermead and Peninsula
· Owners must be in control of their dogs at all times.
· Please dispose of dog waste properly.
· Dogs are never allowed in playgrounds, on bridle paths, or on ballfields when a game is in progress.
· Do not allow dogs to dig - holes create trip hazards.
· To protect wildlife habitats, dogs must always be leashed and stay on paths in wooded areas.
· At Dog Beach (see Map), dogs must be leashed except during the above Long Meadow off-leash hours. Caution: the water at Dog Beach becomes deep very fast
It's too bad that nobody is monitoring the off-leash hours. I think that's by design.
Off-Leash Hours
April 1 to October 31
· 9 p.m.- 9 a.m.: Long Meadow, Nethermead and Peninsula
· 5 - 9 p.m. Monday through Friday only: Nethermead
November 1 to March 31
· 5 - 9 a.m.: Long Meadow, Nethermead and Peninsula
· Owners must be in control of their dogs at all times.
· Please dispose of dog waste properly.
· Dogs are never allowed in playgrounds, on bridle paths, or on ballfields when a game is in progress.
· Do not allow dogs to dig - holes create trip hazards.
· To protect wildlife habitats, dogs must always be leashed and stay on paths in wooded areas.
· At Dog Beach (see Map), dogs must be leashed except during the above Long Meadow off-leash hours. Caution: the water at Dog Beach becomes deep very fast
It's too bad that nobody is monitoring the off-leash hours. I think that's by design.
Another supporter letter
Below is a letter that was sent to the Juniper Civic Association. On some of the online forums I've been called (among other things) "a mouth piece for the Juniper Civic Association". Have I helped their cause? Of course. Are they the only people in NYC who oppose the off-leash "courtesy hours"? Hardly.
From: Dan Matsis
Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2006 12:44 PM
Subject: Leash Law Enforcement
Robert Holden:
Thanks for your litigation efforts toward protecting public park space from appropriation by private Kennel and Dog Weapon Clubs.
I have lived at West 90th Street, Manhattan, since 1978, one block from Riverside Park and I avoid Giuliani's 88th Street Dog Run because it has been made barren by a clay topping, it stinks of dog waste and the dogs bark and snarl at anyone who comes within 30 feet of the dog run fencing.
Furthermore, there has been a "Robert Moses Highway Effect", where the number of dogowners increases and the number of dogs kept by each owner increases as the dog run accommodations increase. Now, my impression is that more dogs use Riverside Park than chilldren, and space devoted to the 72nd Street, 87th Street and 105th Street dog runs rivals the space devoted to children's playgrounds.
Thanks again, and my JPCA membership dues are forwarded to you by snail mail.
Dan Matsis
New York, NY
The link below is for a PDF file that traces the paper trail that a woman had to follow when her dog was killed by another dog in Central Park. Does anyone care?
-Ms. Spano's letters-
From: Dan Matsis
Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2006 12:44 PM
Subject: Leash Law Enforcement
Robert Holden:
Thanks for your litigation efforts toward protecting public park space from appropriation by private Kennel and Dog Weapon Clubs.
I have lived at West 90th Street, Manhattan, since 1978, one block from Riverside Park and I avoid Giuliani's 88th Street Dog Run because it has been made barren by a clay topping, it stinks of dog waste and the dogs bark and snarl at anyone who comes within 30 feet of the dog run fencing.
Furthermore, there has been a "Robert Moses Highway Effect", where the number of dogowners increases and the number of dogs kept by each owner increases as the dog run accommodations increase. Now, my impression is that more dogs use Riverside Park than chilldren, and space devoted to the 72nd Street, 87th Street and 105th Street dog runs rivals the space devoted to children's playgrounds.
Thanks again, and my JPCA membership dues are forwarded to you by snail mail.
Dan Matsis
New York, NY
The link below is for a PDF file that traces the paper trail that a woman had to follow when her dog was killed by another dog in Central Park. Does anyone care?
-Ms. Spano's letters-
Friday, October 13, 2006
New York Times article
Below is an opinion piece from the New York Times.
Unleashing Opinions on Dogs
Published: May 10, 1998
To the Editor:
Marek Fuchs (''Free-Range Dogs,'' Soapbox, April 26) was right on target about the need to crack down on those who do not leash their dogs on city streets and parks. But it is not only small children in baby carriages who are the targets of some of these animals.
Walkers, runners, bikers and other dogs are sometimes attacked by unleashed dogs. Despite signs put up by Parks and Recreation reminding people that dogs should be leashed, too many are let off the leash as soon as owner and dog enter a park.
The fault is, of course, the owner's. And the only way this kind of thing will stop is with proper enforcement of the City Health Code ordinance Ms. Fuchs cited. This is another quality-of-life issue that deserves the attention of the City government.
KENNETH KOWALD Richmond Hill, Queens
Unleashing Opinions on Dogs
Published: May 10, 1998
To the Editor:
Marek Fuchs (''Free-Range Dogs,'' Soapbox, April 26) was right on target about the need to crack down on those who do not leash their dogs on city streets and parks. But it is not only small children in baby carriages who are the targets of some of these animals.
Walkers, runners, bikers and other dogs are sometimes attacked by unleashed dogs. Despite signs put up by Parks and Recreation reminding people that dogs should be leashed, too many are let off the leash as soon as owner and dog enter a park.
The fault is, of course, the owner's. And the only way this kind of thing will stop is with proper enforcement of the City Health Code ordinance Ms. Fuchs cited. This is another quality-of-life issue that deserves the attention of the City government.
KENNETH KOWALD Richmond Hill, Queens
Discussion forum thread
I just found a website dedicated to dogs, dog training, dog breeding, etc. One of their discussion forums has a thread that is clearly pro-leashed in public. It sounds like a very familiar scenario. If I post the URL the NYC offleash folks will begin to post obnoxious replies. Instead here is the content of one public discussion:
Laika
Senior Dog Expert Member **
Joined: 05 Aug 2006
Posts: 92
Posted: Sun Sep 24, 2006 6:01 pm Post subject: Out of control, off leash dogs
I like to walk my dogs in the park, both are well behaved and in a heel. What can I do about people who don't control their dogs? My dog has been attacked my off-leash black labs three times throughout the years. Now I am facing the consequences. I can see that blac (only black ones trigger this behavior) lab are starting to trigger aggression. I keep this in check and so it is under control quickly. What to do about dogs that run up and are all over my dog, being hyper and annoying with the owner way off in the distance. Being on-leash my dog can not get away. I am not comfortable with getting strange dogs by the collar and I am not the type to yell at people. My park has the rule that dogs "under control" can be off leash. Most of them aren't. Is there a way to tell my these people nicely that their dogs should be leashed?
- - - - -
bradfran
Senior Dog Expert Awared Member ***
Joined: 19 Jul 2006
Posts: 977
Posted: Sun Sep 24, 2006 7:34 pm Post subject:
Is it a city park? State? private? Contact the authorities and file a complaint. Try to get them to enforce the "Under Control - Off Leash" policy.
- - - - -
Laika
Senior Dog Expert Member **
Joined: 05 Aug 2006
Posts: 92
Posted: Sun Sep 24, 2006 7:45 pm Post subject:
It is a city park. They usually enforce it on the bike paths, as it would be difficult for bikers if dogs were every where. I am going to try to get something done though as I want to enjoy myself at the park.
- - - - -
HMZ
Senior Dog Expert Awared Member ***
Joined: 21 Mar 2006
Posts: 575
Posted: Mon Oct 02, 2006 3:49 pm Post subject:
Laika, I have the SAME PROBLEM! I walk my dogs on leash and I can't tell you how many times random dogs run up to them. Every one of them has been attacked while on the leash! And usually this happens after the owner shouts out from a quarter mile away, "Oh, my dog's okay" or "oh, my dog's friendly!" In our park we do have a leash law but no one seems to pay attention to it but me! Once, when I was trying to walk away from an off leash dog that was charging us, the owner ran up to me and said I was an person for not letting my dogs roam freely. Very annoying.
- - - - -
Laika
Senior Dog Expert Member **
Joined: 05 Aug 2006
Posts: 92
Posted: Mon Oct 02, 2006 7:41 pm Post subject:
Yes unfortunately some people don't have much sense. I always tell people "Sorry, but my dog is not very friendly" (She does not like to play with other dogs-she tolerates them, but playing is something else...) My other dog loves to play. So if I am just walking him it does not matter as much to me, because if someone starts a fight he just submits.
I gave up going in some areas of the park and have stuck to the bike path, as dogs are required to wear a six foot leash. (They do not want dogs causing problems with bikers). As the "Dog off-leash" people seem to be a bit "radical" and I don't want to get mixed up in it all. (There is a bit of a argument over the whole thing right now, dog owners vs. non dog owners.)
- - - - -
HMZ
Senior Dog Expert Awared Member ***
Joined: 21 Mar 2006
Posts: 575
Posted: Mon Oct 02, 2006 8:11 pm Post subject: Re: Out of control, off leash dogs
Laika wrote:
Yes unfortunately some people don't have much sense. I always tell people "Sorry, but my dog is not very friendly" (She does not like to play with other dogs-she tolerates them, but playing is something else...) My other dog loves to play. So if I am just walking him it does not matter as much to me, because if someone starts a fight he just submits.
I gave up going in some areas of the park and have stuck to the bike path, as dogs are required to wear a six foot leash. (They do not want dogs causing problems with bikers). As the "Dog off-leash" people seem to be a bit "radical" and I don't want to get mixed up in it all. (There is a bit of a argument over the whole thing right now, dog owners vs. non dog owners.)
Yes, you know, you just can't win. Sometimes I have to say that my dog isn't friendly (even though he is to almost every dog) and only then do the owners try to do anything to control their dogs. Of course, they also give me a dirty look as if to say that I don't have any right to be in the park unless I am willing to have my dog roam freely and run up to every adult, child, dog, etc.
- - - - -
bearlasmommy
Senior Dog Expert Member **
Joined: 25 Sep 2006
Posts: 235
Posted: Thu Oct 05, 2006 2:14 am Post subject: Re: Out of control, off leash dogs
Laika wrote:
I like to walk my dogs in the park, both are well behaved and in a heel. What can I do about people who don't control their dogs? My dog has been attacked my off-leash black labs three times throughout the years. Now I am facing the consequences. I can see that blac (only black ones trigger this behavior) lab are starting to trigger aggression. I keep this in check and so it is under control quickly. What to do about dogs that run up and are all over my dog, being hyper and annoying with the owner way off in the distance. Being on-leash my dog can not get away. I am not comfortable with getting strange dogs by the collar and I am not the type to yell at people. My park has the rule that dogs "under control" can be off leash. Most of them aren't. Is there a way to tell my these people nicely that their dogs should be leashed?
Laika, i am sorry to hear about this. From the sound of it, you do not live in an area where ALL DOGS MUST BE LEASHED. You can try re-socializing your dog with black labs since these are the ones that are triggering the agression. You said you are facing the consequences? Is someone trying to have you punished so to speak because their 'off leash' dog came to yours and was bitten. I see this type of thing too much, but where i am, ALL DOGS MUST BE LEASHED, if they arent, the animal control can seize the dog and the owner can and will be charged and fined. Pit bulls in my area, are not forced to also be muzzled even when going for a walk, no matter how gentle they are. Dogs are not allowed "off leash, unless they are in an enclosed and gated dog run or gated and fenced dog park.
One thing that you can do, is speak to animal enforcment officials in your area and speak to your local politicians and push for these type of parks. that way you can walk your dog on a leash and it will not be threatened, and they can let their dogs run free.
- - - - -
Laika
Senior Dog Expert Member **
Joined: 05 Aug 2006
Posts: 92
Posted: Thu Oct 05, 2006 11:51 am Post subject: Re: Out of control, off leash dogs
Consequences as it, I can no longer walk by a lab or black chow without her getting defensive. As if they are automatically going to go after her.
About four months ago I was walking in the park and a chow ran up (off lead) teeth bared, it was snapping and I ended up having to pick my dog up as she was much smaller, leashed and I did not know what else to do. The owner sent her young child to retrieve the dog. She took it's collar and dragged it back.
On the way back I took a detour so I would not bump into the chow. Two black labs ran up and were bouncing all over the place. My dog growled and they growled back and they started to fight. (My mom was walking Laika, So I tried to call the dogs back) The owner came up a few minutes later and took her dogs.
I have been working with Laika and she is getting better, but it is still difficult as I don't know what to do when it is actually happening.
- - - - -
davebritt11
Guest
Posted: Thu Oct 05, 2006 12:00 pm Post subject: Re: Out of control, off leash dogs
Laika wrote:
I like to walk my dogs in the park, both are well behaved and in a heel. What can I do about people who don't control their dogs? My dog has been attacked my off-leash black labs three times throughout the years. Now I am facing the consequences. I can see that blac (only black ones trigger this behavior) lab are starting to trigger aggression. I keep this in check and so it is under control quickly. What to do about dogs that run up and are all over my dog, being hyper and annoying with the owner way off in the distance. Being on-leash my dog can not get away. I am not comfortable with getting strange dogs by the collar and I am not the type to yell at people. My park has the rule that dogs "under control" can be off leash. Most of them aren't. Is there a way to tell my these people nicely that their dogs should be leashed?
I have the same when going to the park some people just dont care when i say something to them they shout out i dont care
Laika
Senior Dog Expert Member **
Joined: 05 Aug 2006
Posts: 92
Posted: Sun Sep 24, 2006 6:01 pm Post subject: Out of control, off leash dogs
I like to walk my dogs in the park, both are well behaved and in a heel. What can I do about people who don't control their dogs? My dog has been attacked my off-leash black labs three times throughout the years. Now I am facing the consequences. I can see that blac (only black ones trigger this behavior) lab are starting to trigger aggression. I keep this in check and so it is under control quickly. What to do about dogs that run up and are all over my dog, being hyper and annoying with the owner way off in the distance. Being on-leash my dog can not get away. I am not comfortable with getting strange dogs by the collar and I am not the type to yell at people. My park has the rule that dogs "under control" can be off leash. Most of them aren't. Is there a way to tell my these people nicely that their dogs should be leashed?
- - - - -
bradfran
Senior Dog Expert Awared Member ***
Joined: 19 Jul 2006
Posts: 977
Posted: Sun Sep 24, 2006 7:34 pm Post subject:
Is it a city park? State? private? Contact the authorities and file a complaint. Try to get them to enforce the "Under Control - Off Leash" policy.
- - - - -
Laika
Senior Dog Expert Member **
Joined: 05 Aug 2006
Posts: 92
Posted: Sun Sep 24, 2006 7:45 pm Post subject:
It is a city park. They usually enforce it on the bike paths, as it would be difficult for bikers if dogs were every where. I am going to try to get something done though as I want to enjoy myself at the park.
- - - - -
HMZ
Senior Dog Expert Awared Member ***
Joined: 21 Mar 2006
Posts: 575
Posted: Mon Oct 02, 2006 3:49 pm Post subject:
Laika, I have the SAME PROBLEM! I walk my dogs on leash and I can't tell you how many times random dogs run up to them. Every one of them has been attacked while on the leash! And usually this happens after the owner shouts out from a quarter mile away, "Oh, my dog's okay" or "oh, my dog's friendly!" In our park we do have a leash law but no one seems to pay attention to it but me! Once, when I was trying to walk away from an off leash dog that was charging us, the owner ran up to me and said I was an person for not letting my dogs roam freely. Very annoying.
- - - - -
Laika
Senior Dog Expert Member **
Joined: 05 Aug 2006
Posts: 92
Posted: Mon Oct 02, 2006 7:41 pm Post subject:
Yes unfortunately some people don't have much sense. I always tell people "Sorry, but my dog is not very friendly" (She does not like to play with other dogs-she tolerates them, but playing is something else...) My other dog loves to play. So if I am just walking him it does not matter as much to me, because if someone starts a fight he just submits.
I gave up going in some areas of the park and have stuck to the bike path, as dogs are required to wear a six foot leash. (They do not want dogs causing problems with bikers). As the "Dog off-leash" people seem to be a bit "radical" and I don't want to get mixed up in it all. (There is a bit of a argument over the whole thing right now, dog owners vs. non dog owners.)
- - - - -
HMZ
Senior Dog Expert Awared Member ***
Joined: 21 Mar 2006
Posts: 575
Posted: Mon Oct 02, 2006 8:11 pm Post subject: Re: Out of control, off leash dogs
Laika wrote:
Yes unfortunately some people don't have much sense. I always tell people "Sorry, but my dog is not very friendly" (She does not like to play with other dogs-she tolerates them, but playing is something else...) My other dog loves to play. So if I am just walking him it does not matter as much to me, because if someone starts a fight he just submits.
I gave up going in some areas of the park and have stuck to the bike path, as dogs are required to wear a six foot leash. (They do not want dogs causing problems with bikers). As the "Dog off-leash" people seem to be a bit "radical" and I don't want to get mixed up in it all. (There is a bit of a argument over the whole thing right now, dog owners vs. non dog owners.)
Yes, you know, you just can't win. Sometimes I have to say that my dog isn't friendly (even though he is to almost every dog) and only then do the owners try to do anything to control their dogs. Of course, they also give me a dirty look as if to say that I don't have any right to be in the park unless I am willing to have my dog roam freely and run up to every adult, child, dog, etc.
- - - - -
bearlasmommy
Senior Dog Expert Member **
Joined: 25 Sep 2006
Posts: 235
Posted: Thu Oct 05, 2006 2:14 am Post subject: Re: Out of control, off leash dogs
Laika wrote:
I like to walk my dogs in the park, both are well behaved and in a heel. What can I do about people who don't control their dogs? My dog has been attacked my off-leash black labs three times throughout the years. Now I am facing the consequences. I can see that blac (only black ones trigger this behavior) lab are starting to trigger aggression. I keep this in check and so it is under control quickly. What to do about dogs that run up and are all over my dog, being hyper and annoying with the owner way off in the distance. Being on-leash my dog can not get away. I am not comfortable with getting strange dogs by the collar and I am not the type to yell at people. My park has the rule that dogs "under control" can be off leash. Most of them aren't. Is there a way to tell my these people nicely that their dogs should be leashed?
Laika, i am sorry to hear about this. From the sound of it, you do not live in an area where ALL DOGS MUST BE LEASHED. You can try re-socializing your dog with black labs since these are the ones that are triggering the agression. You said you are facing the consequences? Is someone trying to have you punished so to speak because their 'off leash' dog came to yours and was bitten. I see this type of thing too much, but where i am, ALL DOGS MUST BE LEASHED, if they arent, the animal control can seize the dog and the owner can and will be charged and fined. Pit bulls in my area, are not forced to also be muzzled even when going for a walk, no matter how gentle they are. Dogs are not allowed "off leash, unless they are in an enclosed and gated dog run or gated and fenced dog park.
One thing that you can do, is speak to animal enforcment officials in your area and speak to your local politicians and push for these type of parks. that way you can walk your dog on a leash and it will not be threatened, and they can let their dogs run free.
- - - - -
Laika
Senior Dog Expert Member **
Joined: 05 Aug 2006
Posts: 92
Posted: Thu Oct 05, 2006 11:51 am Post subject: Re: Out of control, off leash dogs
Consequences as it, I can no longer walk by a lab or black chow without her getting defensive. As if they are automatically going to go after her.
About four months ago I was walking in the park and a chow ran up (off lead) teeth bared, it was snapping and I ended up having to pick my dog up as she was much smaller, leashed and I did not know what else to do. The owner sent her young child to retrieve the dog. She took it's collar and dragged it back.
On the way back I took a detour so I would not bump into the chow. Two black labs ran up and were bouncing all over the place. My dog growled and they growled back and they started to fight. (My mom was walking Laika, So I tried to call the dogs back) The owner came up a few minutes later and took her dogs.
I have been working with Laika and she is getting better, but it is still difficult as I don't know what to do when it is actually happening.
- - - - -
davebritt11
Guest
Posted: Thu Oct 05, 2006 12:00 pm Post subject: Re: Out of control, off leash dogs
Laika wrote:
I like to walk my dogs in the park, both are well behaved and in a heel. What can I do about people who don't control their dogs? My dog has been attacked my off-leash black labs three times throughout the years. Now I am facing the consequences. I can see that blac (only black ones trigger this behavior) lab are starting to trigger aggression. I keep this in check and so it is under control quickly. What to do about dogs that run up and are all over my dog, being hyper and annoying with the owner way off in the distance. Being on-leash my dog can not get away. I am not comfortable with getting strange dogs by the collar and I am not the type to yell at people. My park has the rule that dogs "under control" can be off leash. Most of them aren't. Is there a way to tell my these people nicely that their dogs should be leashed?
I have the same when going to the park some people just dont care when i say something to them they shout out i dont care
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Health Commissioner Frieden's legacy
There is an article in the recent issue of AM New York about New York City's Commissioner of Health, Dr. Thomas Frieden. Apparently, Commissioner Frieden believes that he should ban trans fats in New York City. The author goes on to note that in his tenure Dr. Frieden has instituted an indoor smoking ban at bars, nightclubs and restaurants, expanded HIV testing programs and implemented Diabetes Prevention and Control Program. There is no mention, however, that he is about to turn his back on the current leash law and associated health codes. In a proposal to the Board of Health the Commissioner of Parks will be given the authority to allow dogs to run unleashed, in unfenced areas of New York City parks. I suspect that after the first child mauling occurs in a city park that people will forget about his accomplishments and only remember one thing about Thomas Frieden. He is the city official that erased the leash law and endangered the health of every child playing in a city park.
Prospect Park, "The Ravine"
-Read the entire story-
Prospect Park, "The Ravine"
-Read the entire story-
Off-leash advocate says - find another way though the park
Date: 10/10/06 9:26 AM
A report of an incident:
This morning, a friend and member of the Juniper Park Civic Association and its Executive Board was walking his two sons through Juniper Park, taking them to school.
He does this each morning as an opportunity to enjoy their company, talking about school, family, friends, etc. The two boys are young and well behaved, and obviously enjoy this time with their dad.
The shortest path through the park takes them smack through the thickest congregation of dogs and their owners. To take another paved path would not only be longer, but would eventually have the three of them cut across a grassy area where the large number of dogs have spilled and dumped. And, in any event, there are still many dogs in any alternate route.
This father has been harassed many times, twice phoning the police who arrived and left without summonsing any dog owner. Is that bad? Well, just recently, at the park, one of those officers told me that the Captain (Shanley) had given instructions (orders) to be lax on the owners of unleashed dogs. He told me this right after he had driven into the park (at our insistence), spoke to many owners of unleashed dogs, given no summonses, and returned to us. The harassed father agreed that this was, indeed, the same officer who failed to summons with the explanation that these were the Captain's orders. All this is worth mentioning because recently, the Captain told me and Bob Holden that "as long as a law is on the books, we will enforce it."
The officer in question was sincerely bewildered as to what the state of the law is, because of this insolent Parks policy and a Captain who is catering to his career.
As this family was walking the path to school, one man, an owner of an unleashed dog, and, apparently, a "no-leash" advocate, threateningly confronted the father with his two young sons, demanding to know why they just had to use the path through the dogs. The dog lover demanded that the father find some other way to go through the park.
To this no-leash advocate, apparently dogs have rights superior to people, young children or adults.
This insane Parks Department policy has unleashed the darkest behavior in people who value animals more than people.
Thanks to the videographers on this mailing list, we now witness daytime unleashing of dogs; dogs who are seen fighting, harassing strollers, defecating (you're right - with no cleanup!), mating (another dangerous time for the unwitting to be near), and otherwise running, uncontrolled, with no owner visible. Naturally, also absent from the video scenes are Parks or NYPD enforcement.
Regards,
Bob Doocey
Email to the 104th Precinct has been broken for months, but feel free to write to the captain (or to the Police Commissioner and/or the Mayor):
Captain Shanley
104 Precinct Commander
64-02 Catalpa Ave
Ridgewood, NY 11385-5257
Or, you can fax him at 718-381-0627
A report of an incident:
This morning, a friend and member of the Juniper Park Civic Association and its Executive Board was walking his two sons through Juniper Park, taking them to school.
He does this each morning as an opportunity to enjoy their company, talking about school, family, friends, etc. The two boys are young and well behaved, and obviously enjoy this time with their dad.
The shortest path through the park takes them smack through the thickest congregation of dogs and their owners. To take another paved path would not only be longer, but would eventually have the three of them cut across a grassy area where the large number of dogs have spilled and dumped. And, in any event, there are still many dogs in any alternate route.
This father has been harassed many times, twice phoning the police who arrived and left without summonsing any dog owner. Is that bad? Well, just recently, at the park, one of those officers told me that the Captain (Shanley) had given instructions (orders) to be lax on the owners of unleashed dogs. He told me this right after he had driven into the park (at our insistence), spoke to many owners of unleashed dogs, given no summonses, and returned to us. The harassed father agreed that this was, indeed, the same officer who failed to summons with the explanation that these were the Captain's orders. All this is worth mentioning because recently, the Captain told me and Bob Holden that "as long as a law is on the books, we will enforce it."
The officer in question was sincerely bewildered as to what the state of the law is, because of this insolent Parks policy and a Captain who is catering to his career.
As this family was walking the path to school, one man, an owner of an unleashed dog, and, apparently, a "no-leash" advocate, threateningly confronted the father with his two young sons, demanding to know why they just had to use the path through the dogs. The dog lover demanded that the father find some other way to go through the park.
To this no-leash advocate, apparently dogs have rights superior to people, young children or adults.
This insane Parks Department policy has unleashed the darkest behavior in people who value animals more than people.
Thanks to the videographers on this mailing list, we now witness daytime unleashing of dogs; dogs who are seen fighting, harassing strollers, defecating (you're right - with no cleanup!), mating (another dangerous time for the unwitting to be near), and otherwise running, uncontrolled, with no owner visible. Naturally, also absent from the video scenes are Parks or NYPD enforcement.
Regards,
Bob Doocey
Email to the 104th Precinct has been broken for months, but feel free to write to the captain (or to the Police Commissioner and/or the Mayor):
Captain Shanley
104 Precinct Commander
64-02 Catalpa Ave
Ridgewood, NY 11385-5257
Or, you can fax him at 718-381-0627
Monday, October 09, 2006
What's wrong with this woman
This woman regularly puts her Jack Russell terrier over the fences that protect sensitive areas of Prospect Park. Here she is prompting her dog to tear up the wildflower meadow near the baseball fields. People who work for the landscape management office have told me that they've spoken to her many times as she does it throughout the park. It's bad enough that dogs run unleashed all over the park, but to have some folks intentionally allow their dogs into areas that the parks department is trying to restore is just selfish and idiotic. Being that it is a Jack Russell terrier I suspect that she's hoping her dog will locate a rat and kill it. Sicko.
Also, note the time stamps on the images.
(click images to enlarge)
A few minutes later a wet, muddy dog that had been playing in the water ran up to me and jumped up, smearing his muddy paws down the front of my pants.
The owner of the following dog was a real sweetheart. I spotted a dog several hundred yards away from any dog owner. Its owner clearly hadn't a clue what the dog was up to. When I took out my camera to snap a photo a woman that was about 50 yards to my left screamed, "Put that f**cking camera away, asshole!" I just ignored her.
Earlier in the morning, while standing in the woods of Payne Hill, three large dogs were bounding through the woodlands. Their owner was quite a distance from the dogs and didn't seem the least bit concerned about their activities. My experience this morning was extremely stressful and reinforced why I stopped going into the park in the mornings and late afternoons.
Also, note the time stamps on the images.
(click images to enlarge)
A few minutes later a wet, muddy dog that had been playing in the water ran up to me and jumped up, smearing his muddy paws down the front of my pants.
The owner of the following dog was a real sweetheart. I spotted a dog several hundred yards away from any dog owner. Its owner clearly hadn't a clue what the dog was up to. When I took out my camera to snap a photo a woman that was about 50 yards to my left screamed, "Put that f**cking camera away, asshole!" I just ignored her.
Earlier in the morning, while standing in the woods of Payne Hill, three large dogs were bounding through the woodlands. Their owner was quite a distance from the dogs and didn't seem the least bit concerned about their activities. My experience this morning was extremely stressful and reinforced why I stopped going into the park in the mornings and late afternoons.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Preview of things to come
If you think that the situation is out of control now, just imagine what will happen if the proposal to change the leash law passes:
From: Kathleen Gerritson
Date: Wed, 4 Oct 2006 15:51:33 -0400
Date Wednesday October 4, 2006
Time: 8:00AM
Location: Central Park on the east drive near the Walter Scott Statue
Officer: PEP Bruce
Subject: dog (pit-bull) off the leash
This morning I saw a large pit-bull running on the path near the east drive and Walter Scott Statue. Across the street I noticed a park officer… i.e. Park Enforcement Police. I introduced myself as I pointed and stated there is a large pit-bull with no leash running on the path and asked what could be done about it. He told me nothing. I asked why he stated dogs can be off the leash until 9:00AM. I was shocked and asked anywhere? Yes anywhere in the park until 9:00 AM. His badge had the name Bruce. I asked if that was his name first or last name. He stated last name. I am Officer Bruce. I thanked him and once again asked him so I could be totally sure I understood him. Dogs can be off their leash anywhere in the park? PEP officer Bruce answered yes until 9:00AM. I have a witness that saw the unleashed pit-bull and heard my conversation with PEP officer Bruce.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Gerritson
From: Kathleen Gerritson
Date: Wed, 4 Oct 2006 15:51:33 -0400
Date Wednesday October 4, 2006
Time: 8:00AM
Location: Central Park on the east drive near the Walter Scott Statue
Officer: PEP Bruce
Subject: dog (pit-bull) off the leash
This morning I saw a large pit-bull running on the path near the east drive and Walter Scott Statue. Across the street I noticed a park officer… i.e. Park Enforcement Police. I introduced myself as I pointed and stated there is a large pit-bull with no leash running on the path and asked what could be done about it. He told me nothing. I asked why he stated dogs can be off the leash until 9:00AM. I was shocked and asked anywhere? Yes anywhere in the park until 9:00 AM. His badge had the name Bruce. I asked if that was his name first or last name. He stated last name. I am Officer Bruce. I thanked him and once again asked him so I could be totally sure I understood him. Dogs can be off their leash anywhere in the park? PEP officer Bruce answered yes until 9:00AM. I have a witness that saw the unleashed pit-bull and heard my conversation with PEP officer Bruce.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Gerritson
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