This will be the third article written, and since then, most of the questions and concerns have been dogs and cats running loose and people stepping in or finding that stinky mess left behind on their lawn or somewhere that they walk or play. Most of these concerns are done over the phone, and I’ll tell you, they are pretty upset, and I don’t blame them. Although, I would rather have you send a letter, call if you must.
Leash laws, yes, there is some type of leash law everywhere. You should remember one important thing when walking your dog anywhere off your property. You must be in direct control of your dog at all times. If your dog does damage to another’s property (like digging), or goes after another person’s pet to do harm, you are not in control. You may be held liable for damages and could even open yourself up to civil action. This is beyond the charges you could receive from your Animal Control Officer (ACO). So it’s safe to say that it’s better to buy a leash than to take a chance if you cannot control your pet.
Pooper scoopers, if you’re walking your dog anywhere off your property, you should have it or something like it to pick up the mess. Your dog does not have thumbs, so most likely, he can’t pick it up! You have to. This also pertains to the ones who open their door, let the dog out of the house and he runs over to the neighbor’s to do his business; and you leave it there as if you didn’t know. What is even worse is the phone call to the police or the ACO because someone didn’t pick up their “crap” that was left on the front lawn! This is trivial. It takes away from all the important things that a police officer should be doing, and as an ACO, if I had to come out to tell you to pick up your dog’s “crap,” well, remember there is a summons for that too. So instead of trying to not get along, why not try to get along with your neighbors, or at least pick up the crap, thanks. Have a good day and be vigilant.
Questions or concerns: Animal Control and Care, PO Box 50, New Limerick, Maine 04761, or phone 538-1347, e-mail at Debjoe347@yahoo.com
