By Mark Squibb/February 10, 2023
During this week’s public meeting round table discussion, a time when councillors raise individual concerns, praise the accomplishments of residents, and make mention of noteworthy things happening in the community, councillor Bill Antle raised an issue that we’ve all likely had some experience with in the past.
“I’ll try not to get upset because this is a personal thing for me, and it may be a personal thing for everyone else here,” said Antle. “We walk the trails and people don’t pick up after their dogs. And this is why it’s personal — because this morning I walked the trails, and it’s covered in snow, and you’re walking on dog feces. People think because it’s covered, it’s going to rot. In Mount Pearl, we supply the bags. On most of the poles you can find a bag to pick up after your dog. It’s so easy to do.”
Antle said it’s common for dog feces left on the trail to become covered by snow which makes it impossible for residents to detect — and therefore, avoid.
“Pick up after your dog,” said Antle. “It’s the right thing to do. I don’t know how many times we have to tell people to do that, or how we can get this problem to stop. It’s the right thing, the polite thing to do.”
Mayor Dave Aker acknowledged the issue, but also took a moment to note what a great addition the trail system is to the City.
“We just ask our animal lovers to respect everybody’s cleanliness and hygiene and respect for the environment,” said Aker.
