There has been much discussion as of late with regard to the dog waste problems in the Paradise Park. This sounds like another “tail wagging the dog” issue. While I can’t disagree that the problem exists in the Villages, the suggested solution is far from appropriate. The answer is not to “Ban Dogs.” Rather, education and the addition of “Poop Stations” may be a solution.
Should we close the roads because people speed? Should we close the golf courses because people don’t repair their divots.
My wife and I, along with our dog “Dice” decided to visit the newly, re-designed Paradise Park. A job well done! The use of recycled rubber on the paths was brilliant. The landscaping was wonderful. Do you know what we never saw? Yes, Dog Poop!
Dice and I visit the Mulberry Dog Park almost on a daily basis. If a resident’s pet partner relieved themselves without the resident picking up the waste, the park participants would not hesitate to remind the owner to pick up!
To those that jeopardize my privilege to enjoy walking my dog in the Villages, I say “Shame on you!” If you continue to contribute to the dog waste problems, maybe you should be forced to walk your dog on your own property. Then maybe you would eventually clean up after your dog.
Howard Horwitz is a resident of the Village of Chatham. He and Dice belong to the Canine Therapy Teams of The Villages FL.