Dear Neighbors -
I hate to jump in on these listserv waves of dog poop rants. I've lived in
the neighborhood for 8 years and it seems like it's clockwork that every
year or so we go through people complaining about dogs, dog poop, and dog
owners. I feel that I have to chime in and agree with Wade though.
One thing I have always loved about Highland Park is how community centered
it is, how neighbors look out for each other, and how dog friendly it is
compared to other Pittsburgh neighborhoods. I understand and share
frustration with those who are not responsible with their dogs, but I think
it's a shame that it should take away from how safe and friendly our
community is here. There are far more people who are responsible for their
dogs than those who aren't and they shouldn't need to fear their neighbors
screaming at them because someone else was not respectful. I have had
people come out of their house yelling furiously at me while I pick up
after my dog and one man several years ago who even threatened to go back
in his house, get his gun and shoot both me and my dog!!
May I suggest that instead of getting on the listserv and complaining to
the masses, which probably does not accomplish much for the common good,
get out of your houses and chat with your neighbors. If your neighbors know
you, they are more likely to look out for you, do the right thing and
respect you and your property when it comes to walking their dog and the
like. So many times I see people get on here and complain publicly about
something their neighbor is doing instead of just walking next door and
talking to them and having a relationship with them.
Seriously, take a cue from Mister Rogers folks. We'll all be better off.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Wade Burtch <burtch(a)gmail.com>
To: Karen Cadoff <kcadoff(a)yahoo.com>
Cc: HighlandPark <neighborhood(a)highlandparkpa.com>
Date: Fri, 28 Jun 2013 10:49:06 -0400
Subject: Re: [Highland Park] Courtesy when walking your dog
I wonder if that could have been a stray dog? If not, how rude (on the
part of the owner)!
I would like to make a point regarding dog walking courtesy.
1. It goes without saying that when your dog poops, clean it up.
2. If a stray dog poops in your yard, or if an inconsiderate owner fails
to clean up after their dog, please do not take that out on the vast
majority of owners who keep their dog within leash length from the
sidewalk, and who always clean up after their dogs.
I lived on the Southside for years, and many neighbors were quite venomous
toward dog owners. When I moved to HP, I found it to be much more
neighborly. Neighbors and dog-walkers alike, let's make sure to keep HP
neighborly by cleaning up after our dogs, AND by being tolerant toward
considerate dog owners as they pass by our properties.
Wade