Letter: Another Paw Raised for ‘Paws’

As a resident of Belmont since 2004, I strongly support “The Paws in the Park” program! This is a very well-thought-out program and following the recommendations of this program, I truly believe that Belmont can continue to have a successful off-leash dog program.

In addition to being a happy dog owner for the past six years, I have been a parent and active in the community for the past 171/2 years, living across the street from Town Field. For the many years that we have used the park (playing fields, playground, and basketball court) with our kids, there have never been any issues with off-leash dogs.

I support the “Paws in the Park” program for the following reasons:

1. The off-leash program is a longstanding part of the social infrastructure that makes Belmont special.
2. The off-leash dog community brings together Belmont residents of all ages and from diverse backgrounds for conversation and friendship. This social contact is especially important for residents who live alone or feel isolated.
3. The presence of dog owners makes the parks safer for unaccompanied children and other vulnerable park users.
4. Many dog owners act as stewards for our parks, watching out for their neighbors and picking up trash and other waste left by both humans and dogs.
5. The off-leash dog program has done an excellent job of ridding the participating parks of goose poop, a problem that plagues other fields in Belmont.
6. Easy access to off-leash parks in Belmont has been hugely beneficial for busy dog owners for exercise and to socialize their dogs.

Rachel Garber, Orchard Street