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Letter to the Editor:
Canine companionship provides many Benefits
I am disappointed with the proposed restrictions excluding dogs from Lynch Park.
The companionship of a dog has been beneficial to man since before documented history. It
is a symbol of the wholesome American family emphasized by Presidents, politicians,
celebrities and citizens. Copious studies indicate that the person/dog relationship contributes
significantly to the owner's quality and length of life.
Most people living in the City of Beverly own relatively small lots. This makes the parks
important to provide open space for people to walk, play or just spend time enjoying friends.
Accompanied by your dog heightens the enjoyment and expands the number of people you
meet. Furthermore, your dog encourages the activity by showing enjoyment for it, which the
owner feels obligated to satisfy in an effort to thank the canine companion for the many daily
pleasant moments the pet provides. The resulting socialization is beneficial for both dog and
owner as both develop more pleasant and friendly attitudes.
I live across from a Beverly Park and have observed occasionally inconsiderate dog owners
that do not pick up after their dog. Whenever possible, I offer them a pick up bag indicating
that leaving dog droppings develops ill will toward all dog owners and encourages greater dog
restrictions by the city. It does not seem fair that the many responsible dog owners should be
punished by the irresponsibility of a few. The vast majority of dog owners are responsible.
They do not want to see droppings in the park anymore than non-dog owners do.
As a frequent visitor to the beaches and most of the waterfront parks, I am saddened to
observe violations to their appearance caused by graffiti, trash, broken bottles in the surf and damage to the structures and plantings. Dog owners are not doing this. To the contrary,
presence of people and their canine companions discourage irresponsible behavior. Of course
if the City restricts all individuals as well as dog owners the parks would be in pristine condition, except for what is done by wild animals and fowl. However, not many people would be able to enjoy or benefit from our parks.
Dog owners are a significant percentage of the visitors using our parks and beaches,
especially in the early morning and evening. Restrictions against dog owners will
significantly reduce this use, as dog owners are not likely to use these facilities if their dogs are excluded. We shall eventually lose the family orientation, quality of life and security that come with dog ownership and utilization of the parks. I appeal for and encourage a more dog friendly attitude by the city toward responsible dog owning citizens and ask that restrictions be reduced for a better quality of life for all our citizens.
Ed Walsh
Beverly MA
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