To the Editor:
I’ve just read that the AAC wants to shut down Mulberry Dog Park. I don’t know who supplied to them the information about the park, but it is incorrect. I go the the dog park regularly, and I’ve never seen:
1. Conflict between small and large dogs. In fact, they get along very well when they are together, which is not often.
2. Dog poop piling up. It’s remarkable how free of dog droppings the park is. All the residents I see there pick up after their dogs, or even someone else’s dog if they’re closer. Many of us walk around the park when we’re there and pick up any overlooked dog poop (which is there because a dog owner didn’t see it, not because people don’t pick up after their dogs. It happens infrequently).
3. “Villagers” stealing extra poop bags. Only one time I saw one man helping himself, and I spoke to him about it. I never saw anyone do that again.
I’ve always appreciated that The Villages built the dog park and have kept the grass cut and the shrubs trimmed. I was pleased to see, finally, paving to the entryway. I wish they would also service the dog fountains, and I’m not sure why they don’t. But by and large, Mulberry Dog Park is an important part of the lives of many residents. I think there are people who just don’t like dogs, and they are complaining when they know nothing of the park. I’m sorry that they are unhappy to find themselves in a pet-friendly community, but surely they knew that before moving here.
Doris Bryant
Village of Briar Meadow
