Irresponsible dog owners spoil it for the rest of us

From Donna McCrorie.

HAVING recently joined the fraternity of Jersey dog owners, I wished to find a suitable place for regularly exercising our puppy.

As an avid walker, I was already familiar with the stunning scenic coastal and reservoir walks of which we are so lucky to reap the benefits in this beautiful Island.

I was, however, amazed at the blatant disregard certain people have for the simple rules that have been put in place at the Jersey reservoir sites, particularly in relation to Queen’s Valley.

Of course, appreciating that I am a dog owner myself, these sites are for the benefit of all – walkers, joggers, tourists and dog owners alike. Being a responsible owner, I also ensure that our dog is on a lead and I never allow it to jump up at people or in any way disrupt their enjoyment of their visit to the valley.

However, as is unfortunately the norm, certain people are far less considerate in this respect. I have experienced aggression from three dogs which were unsupervised, one appearing to be completely without an owner (I suspect having wandered down to the valley from an adjoining property).

In the other two incidents the owners appeared completely oblivious or rather uninterested in controlling their animals. Additionally, the lack of responsibility of certain owners with regard to cleaning up after their animals is also self-evident throughout the reservoir site.

I regret that as the result of the number of incidents experienced by both myself and my husband in a four-month period, I have reverted to walking our dog on the pavements in the area surrounding our home.

It is a very sad situation where, for the sake of a few, responsible dog owners are tarred with the same brush and enjoyment of a beautiful local area is prevented due to the fear of what you will encounter as you turn the next corner on what should be a pleasurable recreational walk.