Editor:

Re: Guide for the dog days of summer, July 8 letters.

I am sure I speak on behalf of the majority of dog owners in White Rock when I say we wouldn’t dare bring our dogs anywhere near the promenade.

Not only would we fear the wrath of a bylaw officer, but even worse, we would be subject to evil stares and comments from locals.

It occurs to me that the person with the dog in the July 8 photograph is more than likely a visitor to the area, as summer usually attracts visitors and people from other areas who want to enjoy the beach scene.

Yes, I am sure these people can read, however, there may be other reasons why they have no choice but to have their dog with them. Perhaps they can’t leave it in the car, or they can’t just leave it tied up, and they just want the opportunity to walk on the boardwalk because it is a novelty to them.

It would make more sense to me to give people a simple warning and to have a “poop-bag dispenser” in a couple of areas around the beach in case of accidents.

You can’t change human nature, but you can try and work with it, instead of “punishing” and “banishing” people from the beach.

Honestly, I think there are people in White Rock who don’t want any strangers here to disrupt their little paradise. They would rather keep it all to themselves, and they can’t stand the fact that in the summer there are going to be a lot of visitors coming this way.

Oh sure, they want their money. But they are not willing to put up with any of the inconvenience that go along with it.

As for the parking, that is another story.

With regard to the lady from Washington who paid an $80 fine for parking (Not very neighbourly, July 8 letters), all I can say is I am ashamed.

Wouldn’t a simple warning be adequate; are we that money hungry here? 

D. Barros, White Rock

Other communities dog friendly

I recently read about a new development in New Westminister situated along the river.

This new community includes a waterfront walkway. Apparently the residents “love living there” and “walk (their) dogs there and see others using it everyday.”

This is the latest of many public walkways available throughout the Lower Mainland, and includes the most well-known one along Coal Harbor in Vancouver.

These walkways are enjoyed by everyone in the community, as well as visitors to the area, and are not for the exclusive use of those without dogs. No laws are made to ban them, no constant diatribes in the local newspapers warning of the catastrophes that could befall someone coming into contact with these dog walkers. Just people living together as a community.

The potential irresponsibility of people – whether dog owners, those bent on property damage or polluters of cans, bottles or food containers – will always be an issue, and it is up to all of us to monitor these offenders.

The issue here is that it is time – far past time – White Rock affords its citizens and guests the same privileges that are accorded those in other municipalities.

Susan C. Mueller, White Rock