Dear Editor:
I live near Hamilton Park. I love dogs and believe dogs should be allowed in the park. However, while walking through the park this weekend I understood why some are upset. It was a breezy fall day and balls of pet fur were blowing across the park like tumbleweeds in the desert. What better place than Hamilton Park to give the dog a good brushing and let the fur fly.
Then there was that incident earlier this summer. I heard a child screaming and saw a pack of six dogs running into the playground. Thankfully, the child was just knocked down and nothing more. I have never known a place where dogs were allowed to run free in packs. Isn’t it common sense that this is inherently dangerous, especially to children?
It seems that for many in the neighborhood pets have replaced children. This Sunday there was a church service for dogs in Hamilton Park. The doggy prayers consisted of amplified barking! Please let them pray in silence next time.
I think the real problem has nothing to do with the dogs but a few inconsiderate owners. Dog owners need to police themselves and keep in mind that the park is a public place for people. Please don’t turn it into a dog run.
I propose these simple rules:
1. Dogs should not be brushed or groomed in the park. Would you do the same in your own backyard? Obviously not.
2. Dogs should not be allowed to run free like a pack of wild animals in public areas. It is dangerous, destructive and unpleasant.
3. Religious services for dogs should not be held in public places, particularly when barking is involved.
Resident of Jersey City