Castle Pines North Homeowners Association Number One

July - Man's Best Friend

Aug 20, 1999

MAN'S BEST FRIEND ....BUT
The old saying, "It's raining cats and dogs", apparently happened one night in Castle Pines North. In case you haven't been outside recently, there are dogs everywhere....
Big ones, small ones, fat ones, shaggy ones, barking ones, ugly ones and yes, cute ones.
Aren't all dogs cute, at least to their owners?
One phenomenon about dogs is they walk their master(s) and in the process poop. One sometimes wonders how much exercise owners would get if they didn't have a dog. Two years ago we had a "Poop Patrol?? Pick-Up Day because dog owners were not acting responsibly in our open spaces. The same condition exists now. And the problems have multiplied because we have more homeowners and therefore, more dogs.
The purpose of this article is very simple and direct. If you own a dog (or two) and you use our community open space for walking your dog, please take TWO THINGS with you: (1) Leash and (2) Plastic Pick-Up Bags (newspaper bags or supermarket bags). Douglas County has a dog leash law which states that dogs, away from home, must be under control. Under control, according to the law, means on a leash or similar tether not longer than 30 feet. Yes, we know your dog ??always?? obeys your voice commands and is under control. However, please use a leash. With a leash there are no questions if the dog is under control. And Denver County is now issuing $50 ticket fines in Washington Park
and City Park to owners whose dogs are not leashed. Remember, not everyone thinks your ??Fido?? is adorable and wants to pet him or her.
Poop Preparation: Are you carrying a plastic bag or have one showing? A general observation is that the majority of dog owners (85%) are responsible and respect our beautiful open spaces. Most pick-up and clean-up after their dog(s)!
One major problem, however, are the owners who designate the chore of ??taking the dog out to do its duty?? to their children. Guess what, the kids don't pick up the poop! If this is the case at your home, there are three alternatives for you:
1. Use your own backyard for your dog.
2. Train your children to pick it up, or
3. Get out and walk the dog yourself (with a bag).

Thank you
Dick Lichtenheld (303-688-1920)