By George Alford
Arizona Daily Wildcat
February 18, 1998

Irresponsible Dog Owners should do their duty

To the Editor:

I have just read the article on how the U of A is lax on pooper- and leash laws scooper ("UA lax on pooper-scooper, leash laws," Feb. 13). After reading this story I have to wonder why the university is lax on the irresponsible dog owners.

The story quotes Sanford Smith as saying "If he craps out here though [indicating the UA Mall], I clean it up with paper." Then he goes on to say that if his dog relieves himself in a north parking lot, that he does not usually clean up after him. While it is commendable that he cleans up the mess on the Mall, why not in the parking lot? In my mind this is insensitive to other people.

The story goes on to talk about Louie Mendoza, a Tucson resident who brings his dog, Babie, to campus to enjoy the sunsets. He says he occasionally cleans up Babie's excrement. Why occasionally? I don't see any reason why he can't always clean up after his dog.

I find it a nuisance, when I walk my dog on the Mall, when other people find it is okay to let their dog run without a leash. I don't worry so much about myself, but for my male schnauzer. He is not a large dog and I have to worry if another dog decides he wants to fight. I have control of my dog, but why can't these people keep control of their dogs? Worse yet, what if one these dogs were to attack another person? The damage is done before these people can take back control.

I almost want to say that the UAPD should clamp down the current situation on campus, but I believe the pet owners should be taking the responsibility on their own shoulders. Let's hope that these owners can start acting responsibly before all of us are banished from the campus.

George Alford
Tucson resident.