By Cyndy Beardsley
I am writing in response to “Leash Laws: They’re No Walk in the Park,” specifically to the comments made about Berkeley Dog Park. It did not seem like very many people were asked their opinion. It was all negative. I go there almost every day, and I hear many positive and grateful comments about the park.
In reality, it isn’t that Berkeley Dog Park is the problem.
Just a reminder, Denver has 10-plus off-leash dog parks. Their money has to be spread around. Things like trees, etc., are at the back of their list for all the parks.
Several times a year, the city closes down the park to sterilize the park and rake the sand.
The real problem is that some dog owners do not pick up their dogs’ poop. There are poop bag stations all around the park loaded with free poop bags that people can use. There are signs all around the park reminding everyone to “Please Pick up Your Dog’s Poop!” Many people don’t pay attention to their dogs. And a dumpster is right up against the side of the park. Unfortunately, not everyone is a responsible dog owner.
Having said all that, I want to say a huge thank you to those who do pay attention and pick up after their dogs.
And a shout out to all the volunteers who keep the dog park running as smoothly and safely as possible with the tools and money they have – that they bring in.
• Volunteers at Berkeley make sure there is water. They take a cart with 5-gallon containers to fill with water, and then they haul it back. They clean and fill water bowls every morning.
• Extremely dedicated volunteers take on maintenance tasks within the park, including sweeping and shoveling walkways.
The remark about Berkeley being a “depressing litter box” and “post-apocalyptic wasteland” is not “understandable.” You can always find people who like to complain. It would have been more appropriate to write an article with all sides represented. Berkeley has been named best dog park in Denver.
Better yet, write an article about being a responsible dog owner. The problem of picking up poop is not just about off-leash dog parks, but also about dogs walking on-leash through the neighborhoods, pooping on lawns, and their owners not cleaning up after them.
Cyndy Beardsley
Wheat Ridge, 80212