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My Pet World: Dog owners should strive to be considerate of their non-pet-owning neighbors

Cathy M. Rosenthal, Tribune Content Agency on

Dear Cathy,

I am not a pet owner, but I read your column most weeks in our local paper and find it interesting. Since my wife and I do not have any pets, we are impacted daily by others who do. There's incessant barking when dogs are left in yards for hours. There are people walking their dogs on the sidewalk and their pets urinating on our lawn, landscaping, plants, mailbox post, garbage cans, etc. This is in addition to the sometimes piles (of poop) left on my property.

I also bike on trails and am impacted daily by owners with leashes 15 to 20 feet long, which is a safety hazard, as well as dogs not adhering to vocal commands when approaching from behind. Many times, a dog will go for my legs or the wheels. I have fallen three times because of the inconsiderate actions of these pet owners. Please remind all that being a pet owner carries with it a responsibility.

— Bruce, Allentown, PA

Dear Bruce,

As a dog owner myself, I agree we should all strive to understand how our pet’s behaviors impact our neighbors and strive to keep the peace as much as possible. Here are a few suggestions for how dog owners can better win the hearts and minds of their non-pet-owning neighbors.

 

Despite what some people might think, you can manage where your dog pees and poops. When walking your dog through the neighborhood, look for common areas where he can relieve himself. Then, walk briskly past your neighbor's homes to keep him from peeing or pooping on your neighbor’s lawns.

Of course, you can only do so much since a dog can still decide at any moment that he needs to relieve himself. But at least show your neighbors you are trying. Also, make friends with your neighbors and let them know that if your dog suddenly has to relieve himself in their yard that you will always clean up after him.

To keep the peace, people need to manage their barking dogs and bring them inside if they can't get them to stop barking. It’s just the neighborly thing to do.

Long leads are a safety hazard, especially on a trail with runners and cyclists. Dogs should be on short leads when walking on trails and at their owner’s side to prevent them from running after passersby.

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