Pets: Dog deposits raise questions

I am submitting this letter in response to the increasing amount of dog deposits around Pennington and Summit Loops as well as in the small local community park.

Twice now I have accidently stepped in deposits left behind and tracked it into my home. I have always been diligent about cleaning up after my own dogs, but recently I have made an extra effort to pick up others in hopes I may prevent the same misfortune from happening to a neighbor. Not only is pet excrement unsightly, it is a health hazard.

On Super Bowl Sunday at approximately 11 a.m., two female passersby (two separate incidents) were walking their dogs. One was a leashed, small brown dog, the other an unleased large black dog. While looking out a window, my house guest stated it appeared that both dogs did their duty in front of my home. I immediately went to retrieve a plastic bag and rubber gloves and proceeded to offer them to the dog walkers.

The first lady thanked me and stated she had her own, the second lady I had to call out to, as she was way ahead of her pet, not aware he was making his deposit in my yard. She was very pleasant but appeared somewhat defensive, stating her dog usually does it on the side of the road and not in other's yards. She also stated I was one of the very few who picked up after their pets while on a walk — I hope not! Anyway, my question is; what difference does it make — side of the road or in someone's yard?

She did oblige and use the bag and gloves I offered then handed me the bag to dispose of. It was obvious she did not carry any. This lady has one of the nicest, groomed yards in the neighborhood — would she feel the same if other pets were defecating "on the side of the road" in front of her home and it wasn't cleaned up?

The last thing I want to do is alienate or make enemies with my neighbors. I would really appreciate some feedback from the readers. Am I really one of the very few who pick up after their pets and was I wrong in approaching these two women and asking them to do so?

I do want to apologize to the first lady. My house guest was mistaken when he thought he saw her pooch making a deposit — there wasn't any found.

L. Morey

Coupeville

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