Dear neighbors, I tend to walk my dogs daily in Highland Park. You might have seen us (short lady with two dachshunds, one of which barks at everyone - sorry about that). For several months, I've noticed a preponderance of bones left behind by picnic enthusiasts, especially near what I think is the Bigelow pavilion (the one in the northwestern corner of the park). I'm pretty careful to guide my dogs away from the bones, but I must have missed the moment when my youngest snagged one last month. It became lodged in his jaw but was too small for even three vets to find on three separate visits. In fact, we didn't know it was a bone until this morning, when a surgeon found it. Luckily, my little guy is going to be fine, but this stupid little chicken bone caused my dog terrible pain, led to an infection, and cost me over $1300. I realize that those who leave litter and bones on the ground after their picnics may not be reading this message, and I doubt the Parks Department can or would do anything about them. I've rented a pavilion in the park, and I know we have to sign contracts stating we would clean up after ourselves, but apparently some people just don't think that applies to them. I will call the Parks Department, though, and ask that garbage collectors be extra careful when emptying the cans around the pavilions. In the meantime, keep a close eye on your dogs around the pavilions. I'd hate for someone else's doggie to get this sick. Have a great weekend, everyone! Dawn Sent from my iPad