Show courtesy and keep dogs on leashes

There have been several letters to the editor recently regarding the fine for dogs off-leash. From my perspective, either the fine isn’t large enough or our leash laws aren’t strictly enforced. Don’t get me wrong, I like most dogs; irresponsible dog owners, not so much.

Whether I am walking in my neighborhood, hiking our local trails or strolling along the beach, when your off-leash, “it’s OK, he’s friendly” dog comes charging at me, I don’t know whether I’m going to get a nose in my crotch, a chunk of meat torn out of my leg or the hound is going to terrorize some poor shorebird or other unsuspecting wildlife that is out and about.

So, either show some courtesy to others when you are out with your mutt or expect to pay a sizable fine for letting Fido run free. And by the way, I don’t appreciate dodging poop piles either, so don’t forget to take along your pooper-scooper.

This story was originally published March 2, 2016 at 8:31 PM with the headline "Show courtesy and keep dogs on leashes."