Leashed Dogs Group Plans Hot Dog Social

Lakewood dog owners will have the chance to support their right to take their dogs into Lakewood parks on September 26 at a Hot Dog Social. The Citizens Committee to Allow Leashed Dogs in Lakewood Parks plans its first fundraiser that day from 1 to 5 p.m. at Lakewood’s newest pet store, The Furry Nation, 15800 Detroit Road (near Brockley Avenue). There’s plenty of parking in back, and plenty of interesting things to look at in the store. In addition, the Committee is planning a fun afternoon with local vendors, pet adoptions, raffles, pet photos, a bake sale and activities for the kids.

Money raised from the event will help pay for some of the expenses involved in allowing dogs in the parks, such as doggie bag stations and new signs. We also want to help fund an educational program to inform Lakewood dog owners about their responsibilities and how to be better dog guardians. The intention is to address issues that will improve relations between dog owners and other residents in all parts of the city, not just the parks. “Most dog owners want to do the right things with their pets and, without being too heavy-handed, we want to give them the information and tools to do that,” said Susan Sliede, Committee president. If the ordinance now being considered by City Council passes, all aspects of the program will be implemented as soon as possible. If not, the Committee plans to start its educational efforts and continue to press the question.

Five of the nine candidates on the primary ballot for three at-large Council seats were in support of allowing taxpayers to walk their dogs in the parks. “The Committee has proposed an ordinance that is being considered by City Council. When it passes, all aspects of the program will be implemented as soon as possible.  Our ordinance covers leashed dog walking only,” said Committee secretary Donna Klein. “It also requires standard 6 foot, non-extending leashes, that walkers are of sufficient size and maturity to control their animals, and that pet owners observe all existing laws, especially those dealing with picking up waste, and dangerous dogs.” Forms are available on the Committee’s Web site for those wishing to donate or to reserve a vendor table at the fundraiser. Monetary donations, food and beverage donations and items that can be raffled are all welcome.  Return the forms to Leashed Dogs in Lakewood Parks, P.O. Box 770610, Lakewood, OH 44107, or E-mail the Committee at: leasheddogsinlakewoodparks@yahoo.com.

See www.LeashedDogsinLakewoodParks.com for more details. “While some are skeptical about allowing dogs in the parks, we know this can work, especially if the entire community gets behind this effort and supports it by example,” said Mark Schulte, who is in charge of publicity for the Committee. Contact: Regina Tomek, rtomek@cox.net, Citizens Committee to Allow Leashed Dogs in Lakewood Parks.