Bird watchers vs dog walkers - what do you think?

http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/05/05/in-prospect-park-dog-owners-and-bird-watchers-fight-for-space/?_php=true&_type=blogs&hpw&rref=nyregion&_r=0

In relation to this article, although it isn't just black and white, I'm siding more with the bird watchers. I don't believe it's fair that other people and animals should suffer because some dog walkers refuse to adhere to the law and etiquette.

I agree Eleanor. If this park is on an important migratory route, then whether the birds are being watched or not they should be allowed some peace. And if areas and times are set aside when dogs are allowed to run free, but in other areas and times they are still allowed so long as they are leashed, then the dog walkers should abide by these rules. Simples.

Exactly my thoughts. I think they've been very accommodating to dog walkers, reasonably setting allocated times and areas for both on and off lead walking. I definitely think that the welfare or wildlife should come first, especially considering the dogs will not in any way be harmed by on lead walking.

We,, the by laws say no unleashed animals between 9pm & 9am - so that's exactly what should happen! Whether you think that either side is right or wrong, the dogs should be on a lead between 9am and 9pm!

Definitely! Dog walkers aren't above the law.

Caryll wrote:We,, the by laws say no unleashed animals between 9pm & 9am - so that's exactly what should happen! Whether you think that either side is right or wrong, the dogs should be on a lead between 9am and 9pm!

I wish you'd tell that to some of the idiots around here!

You have problems with people who think they're above the law as well? Seems like there are a lot of people like that.

It sounds like the dog walkers have plenty of opportunities to let their dogs off lead. On the side of the bird watchers with this.

Wendy wrote:

Caryll wrote:We,, the by laws say no unleashed animals between 9pm & 9am - so that's exactly what should happen! Whether you think that either side is right or wrong, the dogs should be on a lead between 9am and 9pm!

I wish you'd tell that to some of the idiots around here!

Unfortunately idiots are...well, idiots! They don't/won't/can't listen and do as they damn well please, making it difficult for all the decent people who do take notice of the law!

I wish the dog walkers would understand that wild animals should come first in their wild habitats. Dogs can go pretty much wherever, but these birds need the place for survival.