I’ve been reading the recent opinions of folks regarding the matter of where dogs are allowed to relieve themselves; not a subject to be pooh-poohed!

There seems to be significant disappointment and disgust, not so much aimed at the dogs, but with the ignorance and disrespect shown for other people, public and private property and the law itself by more than a few inconsiderate pet owners.

I have had dogs myself in the past and currently know several people who have one or more, but don’t conduct their exercise and relief trips in a callous or careless manner.

In the interest of educating the dog owners or assist walkers who need a bit of guidance, I exclude the many owners who are conscientious and law-abiding in this area, you should know that dogs will relieve themselves wherever they are at the time of need, on any kind of surface; so grass is definitely not required.

Those who walk dogs along neighborhood streets and allow them to sniff at mailboxes and then defecate on driveways or granite rock front yards know how unimportant the ground surface is. These offenders, guilty of trespassing as someone has already pointed out, should simple be arrested for their violation and disregard of private property laws.

As a concern for the animals, walking them on hard concrete or asphalt over any significant distance is not good for their feet, legs or hips. This is even more cruel when the pavement gets hot on sunny days. The dog park is a wonderful solution to these concerns as well as the defecation issue.

With respect to the medians on Avenue of the Fountains, recently re-landscaped for many thousands of dollars, I would suggest that it simply be posted as a prohibited area for dogs. Violators arrested. Problem solved.