First the official rules:  In Avalon, dogs are not permitted on the beach between March 1st through September 30th.  In Stone Harbor, dogs are permitted between September 30th and June 1st any time during the day; and after June 1st, from 7pm through sunset.  In both communities, the dogs must be on a leash year round.
The reality: many owners use the open space of the beach as an opportunity to allow their dogs to run.
Unfortunately, a loose dog can be a nuisance (or worse) to others on the beach.
If a dog aggressively approaches me, barks at me, jumps on me, or chases me…it’s not my fault (despite being told otherwise just this morning!). Â And frankly, it’s not even the dog’s fault. Â The dog owner has the responsibility to maintain control of their pet- preferably with the aid of a leash.
I don’t want to hear “He’s just saying hello”, or “Don’t worry, she won’t bite”, or “He’s just a puppy”, or today’s classic line “It’s because you are afraid”.
I am nervous around dogs, so I purposely move out of their way while walking on the beach. Â But, walkers/runners should not feel intimidated by dogs…or their owners.
Annual Dog Rant
First the official rules:  In Avalon, dogs are not permitted on the beach between March 1st through September 30th.  In Stone Harbor, dogs are permitted between September 30th and June 1st any time during the day; and after June 1st, from 7pm through sunset.  In both communities, the dogs must be on a leash year round.
The reality: many owners use the open space of the beach as an opportunity to allow their dogs to run.
Unfortunately, a loose dog can be a nuisance (or worse) to others on the beach.
If a dog aggressively approaches me, barks at me, jumps on me, or chases me…it’s not my fault (despite being told otherwise just this morning!). Â And frankly, it’s not even the dog’s fault. Â The dog owner has the responsibility to maintain control of their pet- preferably with the aid of a leash.
I don’t want to hear “He’s just saying hello”, or “Don’t worry, she won’t bite”, or “He’s just a puppy”, or today’s classic line “It’s because you are afraid”.
I am nervous around dogs, so I purposely move out of their way while walking on the beach. Â But, walkers/runners should not feel intimidated by dogs…or their owners.
End of rant- thanks!