To the editor:
Westport is known for its wonderful community and stunning surroundings, but it’s missing an important element — a dedicated, fully enclosed space for dogs to run and play off leash. A dog run would be a huge boon to Westport for several reasons.
Currently, many dog owners in Westport have to make do with keeping their dogs on leash or travel far distances to neighboring towns with dog runs.
While some dog owners already consider Winslow Park to be a dog-friendly community zone, the lack of an enclosed space for pups to run freely — without the fear of them tragically escaping onto Compo North or Post Road East — excludes a huge segment of the Westport canine population.
Dogs need to run for their health and well being; but, instead, many are confined to leash-walking so as to avoid the devastation of yet another tragedy on the surrounding roads of Winslow Park. It is clear from the 2022 petition that was passed around that there are at least a thousand Westport dog owners clamoring for a safe enclosed dog run.
The lack of a safe fully enclosed space not only inconveniences residents, but also limits the opportunities for dogs to engage in healthy physical activity and interact with other dogs. A dog run would provide a safe and controlled environment for dogs to exercise and socialize.
Furthermore, a well-maintained dog run can contribute to the overall well-being of the community. Studies have shown that regular exercise and socialization can help reduce behavioral issues in dogs, leading to fewer noise complaints and less disruptive behavior in neighborhoods.
In addition, a dog run can foster an even deeper sense of community among residents. Dog owners often form close-knit communities. A well-designed dog run would offer a space for people to come together, share experiences and build new friendships. This sense of camaraderie and shared interest in pet ownership can have positive ripple effects throughout the town, enhancing the overall social fabric and connectedness of the community.
In short, establishing a dog run is not just a matter of convenience for pet owners, but a step toward creating a more inclusive, vibrant and harmonious community.
By providing a dedicated space for dogs to run and play off-leash, responsible pet ownership can be promoted, behavioral issues can be reduced and the social bonds among residents can be strengthened.
From a community perspective, a well-designed dog run can have positive social and economic impacts. Dog owners are more likely to frequent local establishments and outdoor spaces when they have a safe and enjoyable place to take their pets for exercise and socialization. This increased foot traffic can benefit local businesses and contribute to a vibrant and active community.
Moreover, a dog run can foster a stronger sense of community among dog owners. It provides a shared space where individuals with a common interest in pet ownership can come together, share experiences and build connections. This sense of community not only benefits the dog owners themselves, but also contributes to the overall social fabric of the town.
The local authorities and community leaders should consider the numerous advantages that a dog run would bring to Westport and take the necessary steps to make this vision a reality. It’s time for our four-legged residents and their dedicated owners to see a well-maintained dog run.
In conclusion, the implementation of a well-designed dog run would greatly benefit Westport by promoting the health and happiness of its canine residents and fostering a stronger sense of community among dog owners.
By providing a secure space for dogs to exercise and socialize, complete with separate areas, essential amenities and vaccination requirements, a dog run (named “Winnie’s Run” after the deceased) would become a valuable asset which enhances the quality of life for both dogs and their human companions.
Mimi Duvall-Sajda
Westport
With no disrespect intended towards the author, the research is clear that fenced-in dog parks are bad. They’re really something to be only used in urban areas where off-leash areas are not available. No reputable dog trainer will recommend a fenced in dog park, particularly for a young dog. I could go into detail as to why, but this information is readily available. The NY Times wrote a whole article on it in 2020. Or check out The Association for Professional Dog Trainers, who list in detail the problems with dog parks.
It’s true that less-experienced owners often think that having a fenced in area is a good idea, but the reality is that it’s bad for your dog, and it’s bad for the owners. If you can’t manage your dog off-leash, get a trainer. I have high prey-drive dogs, so I used e-collars with remotes with them when they were younger. You can train a dog on one of these systems in a relatively short period of time.
Keep in mind that the cost of building and maintenance for a dog park isn’t cheap, either. They need to be cleaned many times a day and in the winter, when the water is shut off, they generally get to be disgusting. I spent many years in Manhattan dog parks and broke up many fights. No thanks!
Mimi Duvall-Sajda – thank you for publishing this. I completely agree and have contacted Parks Superintendent Michael West about this in the past. What else can we do to help you so we action this? Best, Dan
To Mike O’Hara
If you have pertinent information about this initiative I suggest that you share it directly with the Parks & Recreation Department and Commission.
As I recall they began discussing this at last evening’s meeting and there seemed to be no detrimental or opposing comments. On the contrary I believe that it was stated that there is a request petition with over 700 signatures on it.
Any experience and direct knowledge would be useful.