To the Editor:
The leash law was not the only topic covered during the comment section of the [June 4 Altamont Village Board] meeting, nor was Mr. [Matt] Flaherty the only one who was dismayed over the lack of data to support a change in the wording of the current law [“Leash law in limbo for Altamont,” The Altamont Enterprise, June 17, 2024].
Nor was he the only one present who expressed support for a proposal to have an Altamont dog park. So, I write to share two things with your astute readers:
— 1. The results of a FOIL [Freedom of Information Law] request for all reports of the current leash law violations that support a change; and
— 2. A proposal to create a dog park that would benefit all residents/
The FOIL request:Â
In the past five years, the village has received two reports concerning dogs: one report of two dogs off leash at Bozenkill Park on April 25, 2022 and a dog-bite incident on May 22, 2023 that was turned over to Guilderland Animal Control. That is it.
One other piece of data was a petition with seven legible signatures of folks who thought the law should be changed. Hardly enough to inspire others to tackle the idea of changing the law, thus the change was changed because that is the process the board of trustees follow when they receive a petition. Thus the position of myself, the undersigned, and countless other residents in town; we believe that the law should remain as is since the data strongly suggest it is not a village-wide concern.
The dog park proposal:
I also attended the same meeting that The Enterprise did and I was excited to learn that the board and the public were generally supportive of the idea of a dog park.
The village of Altamont prides itself on being a place where community members, both two-legged and four-legged, can thrive together. As a concerned community member, I would like to share with my fellow residents a passionate plea to establish a much-needed dog park in our village.Â
Skeptics may argue that building a dog park would require significant financial investment and ongoing maintenance. While it is true that establishing and maintaining a dog park comes with a small cost, the long-term benefits far outweigh these concerns.
Furthermore, there are several funding options available, such as grants and community partnerships, which can help offset the financial burden. In the end, the investment in a dog park will contribute to the overall desirability of our community and potentially increase property values.
The need for such a space has become increasingly evident: I would like to highlight several reasons why the establishment of a dog park is essential:
— 1. Increase in residents’ dog ownership since the pandemic
By my own informal count, the number of friendly dog owners in the park daily easily exceeds the high 20s. From 1987 till 2020, I was often the only person with a dog at Bozenkill Park, early a.m. or late p.m.;
— 2. Safety concerns
Our sidewalks and streets are shared by pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists, which does not always make them the safest places for pets walking with their owners. Many dog owners are forced to walk their pets on busy streets or in public areas with no space for off-leash play and exercise.
A well-designed dog park would provide a controlled, secure environment to ensure the dogs’ safety, enhance their, and their owners’, mental and physical well-being, and promote responsible pet ownership;
— Socialization and health
Dogs are social animals, and proper socialization is crucial to their overall well-being. A dedicated dog park would offer a space for our licensed, vaccinated furry companions to interact and play. It would allow them to develop stronger bonds with other dogs and humans.
Additionally, regular exercise and mental stimulation provided by a dog park can significantly reduce behavioral issues, promoting healthier and happier dogs. See the National Recreation and Park Association position on dog parks and the American Kennel Club’s statement;
— Improve overall quality of life for all residents of Altamont
These people said it better than I can: “Getting people outside their homes and offices is growing harder with social media and a rise in depression and anxiety across the globe. Most people adore their pets, and when there are dog parks in their community, they love to take their pooch.
“When humans congregate in places like dog parks, they naturally tend to form connections over their shared responsibilities as pet owners. What better time to ask about a vet referral or local dog treat bakery if you’re new in town than at a dog park?
“Dog parks are an excellent way to organically foster a sense of community in your local area” — just as they have for residents of Berne, Voorheesville, and many other nearby towns with experiences from which we can learn and create a dog park that meets our needs; and
— 5. Positive impact on local economy
Dog parks often attract people from neighboring towns who are seeking a suitable space to exercise and play with their pets. By establishing a dog park in our community, we can attract dog owners to our town, boosting local businesses such as stores that sell pet food (Agway, Stewart’s, etc.), services, and nearby places to eat.
I know that to implement such a project requires careful consideration and planning. However, I believe that, with the support of dedicated community members, local businesses, and volunteers, we can make this vision a reality. I kindly ask that you consider the following actions:
— 1. Form a task force that consists of interested community members who are passionate about both canine and community well-being to contribute their time, expertise, and assistance throughout the planning and implementation process;
— 2. Conduct a feasibility study to assess potential locations, facility requirements, costs, and funding opportunities. The study will provide valuable insights for decision-making and help identify potential obstacles and ways to overcome them; and
— 3. Engage in community outreach efforts to raise awareness about the importance of a dog park and garner support from fellow residents, local businesses, and organizations. This will help mobilize volunteer efforts, fundraising initiatives, and establish a sense of community ownership over the project.
Fellow residents, I truly believe that the establishment of a dog park in our village would be a transformative initiative that positively impacts the village, its residents and beloved four-legged companions of dog owners.
By supporting this endeavor, you have an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy of compassion, inclusiveness, and community-building for the present and future generations of Altamont.
I would be glad to collaborate and provide any additional assistance the trustees may need to help make our dream of a dog park come true. I eagerly await a positive response from your readers and the trustees and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for our community.
David Grapka
Mike Murphy
Matt Flaherty
Altamont
