From the Animal Services Officer
The time was right to hear from James Lindley, Beverly's new Animal Services Officer and the day was perfect. At 8:30AM at Lynch Park, fellow BARC members and other concerned citizens joined Mr. Lindley, Mayor Crean, and members of his staff at a coffee and doughnut reception, courtesy of James Lindley. Jim spoke to the group offering his perspective of his job. He spoke of his daily dealings with nuisance dogs and loose dogs. He stressed the need for dog owners to be responsible by keeping dogs within a controllable distance and by picking up after dogs.
 James stated that he is new to his position in Beverly and is now assessing what will be required to get a good Animal Services program off the ground. He mentioned that it can take up to two years to establish a better program. He stated that he will be looking for creative ways to deal with offenders. Increased fines or mandatory training classes may be considered for repeat offenders. He stated that his job requires him to counsel people and, at times, to act as a grief counselor for pets that have died or come to face death through accident.
Mayor Crean introduced himself as a dog owner. He stated that out of courtesy to the leagues that play ball that all ball parks should be considered off limits to dogs. He mentioned that he would not have a problem with dogs running off leash at Sally Mulligan Park. Mayor Crean spoke briefly and fielded a few questions from the audience. He reiterated the need for dog owners to monitor their dogs and to pick up after them. He is quite fond of his own Springer Spaniel.
Dogs in attendance were well-behaved enough to sit pretty for a professional pet photographer and press members who were also in attendance. BARC members with digital cameras also offered to photograph pups for the website.
 Jim Lindley accepted BARC's help in filling the bag dispensers located in many parks throughout the city by distributing bags and dispenser keys to BARC members who have volunteered to help with the Adopt-a-Park program. He also stated that if anyone runs out of bags or needs him in an emergency, they can reach him at 978-501-0708 during working hours. He will make himself available on Thursdays at Lynch by appointment for anyone needing additional bags.
It was a great day for BARC at the PARK and DOGS at the PARK.
How to reach the Animal Services Officer
Non-emergency: 978-921-6040 ext. 311
Emergency (cell phone during his working hours): 978-501-0708
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