It was painful (but not surprising) to read all of the letters in the June 21st issue on the People, Pets and Parks project.
All these self-centred dog owners truly enter a twilight zone of special pleading, rationalizations and false claims because one of their deleterious activities (off-leash dogs - which should never have been permitted in the first place) is now, finally being curtailed. Do they even hear themselves?
One person complains that they are “not welcome”; no, you are welcome, you just need to have your dog on a leash, because your off-leash dog is a major PIA to other people, wildlife, and more. Others bellyache that they and their dog will now be completely missing out on fresh air and exercise. No, you can still get plenty of both, just use a leash, it really is that simple. Another individual claims that their park will be “ruined as a place of community”. Really? I suggest that just the opposite will be the result, as people who don’t want to be jumped on or growled at by unknown, over-exuberant dogs, will feel more safe and welcome. I mean, are you actually suggesting that you can’t engage with other people if your dog is leashed?
All of these dramatic overreactions and irrational arguments display one thing very clearly, that all of these dog owners who are blowing a gasket over having to be forced to be considerate of others have the temperament and manners of a spoiled child. One writer (Alison Forster) who declares that they will “not ever” obey these new rules illustrates this perfectly.
C. Franks
Saanich
