Slydog brand retractable leashes

Retractable leashes pose problems for people and their pets

Heather Todd didn’t bring a leash with her the day she took her pooch Penny to a pond near Boston in 2005. So she borrowed a retractable dog leash to help keep her Labrador retriever in check. But it didn’t. The 90-pound dog suddenly took off running and dragged Todd across the sand.

When she came to a stop and recovered her wits, she spotted something lying on the sand. With horror, she realized it was a human index finger; with greater horror, she realized it was her own. The cord of the retractable leash had looped around her finger and pulled taut when Penny bolted.

“It just cut it off like a sharp knife,” Todd says. [Continued]

Many now have a warning NOT to use around small children. Wonder why? Retractable/flexi leads are a danger to those who use them, their dogs and anyone nearby:

1) They encourage the dog to get, and stay away from the handler; contrary to sound training priciples.

2) They can easily be pulled from the handler's control. Then the dog is loose with the case clapping the ground behind them (scaring them more). A standard lead has a loop to go around your wrist.

3) They can lead to injuries ranging from cable burns and shoulder problems, to entanglement (leading to falls), canine leg amputations, and loss of an eye (cable broke at dog's collar, boomeranged back to owner's face).

For everyone's safety, we do NOT allow them at dog events. I grit my teeth every time I see one being used, anticipating any of the above - most of which, I have witnessed.

Convenience should never be a substitute for responsible dog ownership and good training practices.

Original posted by: Tina Valant | Apr 14, 2009 11:19:06 AM

Animal Rescue Benefit Event

-----Original Message-----

Dear (BPC) Members, Two of our members, who are affiliated with Friends of Animal Rescue, a non-profit organization that provides much needed funding to help NYC rescuers remove animals from death row at city shelters, have extended an invitation to a fund-raising event that will be held in our back yard on June 4. From 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm, the fund-raising party will be held dockside at the North Cove Marina near Gateway Plaza. Then, at 9:00 pm, the party moves onboard the mega yacht Atantis for a one-hour harbor cruise. Go to http://www.friendsofanimalrescue.com for more details and for information about purchasing tickets.

Thanks,
Jeff & Paula Galloway
www.bpcdogs.org
bpcdogs@rundog.com

First Dog Bo

Bo, a six-month old, Texas-born Portuguese water dog and a gift from Senator and Mrs. Kennedy to Sasha and Malia, is the newest member of their Obama family. Watson, the six year old father of Bo, is owned by Craig Rader and was used as a stud by breeder Julie Parker, who owns a kennel near Erie. According to 'The Philadelphia Inquirer':

Earlier this year, U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy chose another product of the same Watson-Penny union for his new puppy, Cappy. Two of Kennedy's other Portuguese water dogs have the same father and grandmother as Watson, the now-deceased Benhil's Rogue Wave (known as Rudder) and Misty Meadow Miriah of Benhil, both of the Erie area.

Because Parker and the Raders were under the impression that all of the "Watson children" from that litter had already been sold, the news that Bo was joining the first family caught them by surprise.

If Bo is anything like Watson, the Obamas should have an ideal family pet, said Craig Rader, though White House staffers should keep a close eye in the event that Bo inherited some of Watson's mischievous genetic material.

East River Esplanade Site Plan for Dog Run

South Street Seaport Ice Rink Opens

Location: Pier 17 • South Street and Fulton Street in lower Manhattan
Directions: J, M, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5 to Fulton Street -or- A, C to Broadway-Nassau
Hours: Open Daily  •  10am – 10pm; through March
Pricing: General Admission: $5.00; Skate Rental: $7.00; Cash only

EDC Meeting to Present Waterfront Park Design

We regret the last minute timing of this notice of the upcoming meeting of the Waterfront Committee of CB#1:

Monday, 12/15/2008, 6 PM, 51 Chambers Street, room#709. Only Item on the Agenda: EDC to present East River Waterfront Park Phase I design/Wall Street to Maiden Lane/Including neigborhood dog run and a proposed pavilion.

This meeting just came to our attention; however, it should be of importance to all of the neighborhood dog owners who want to have an input into the EDC planning for the sanctioned recreational facilities proposed for the community dogs and their owners. It appears that the first, and only, item on the agenda is a discussion of the planning for the East River Waterfront Park, which is to include a dog run; therefore, individuals who want to have some input into the planning process should arrive early.

Taking into account the short notice and inconvenient hour, all neighboring dog owners, or their representatives, should attempt to attend this meeting to review what the EDC has planned for the neighborhood dogs and their owners.

Coalition Of Dog Owners/Lovers

NYPost: FiDi Neighborhood Profile

Wall Street: It's not just for bankers anymore. After years of hype, the Financial District -- call it FiDi, if you'd like -- is finally living up to its promise as a residential neighborhood.

Conversions that began in the late 1990s now offer a variety of options, including ultra-luxe residences like Downtown by Philippe Starck (15 Broad St.), the Setai (40 Broad St.) and the Cipriani Club Residences (55 Wall St). New construction dots the area, too, drawing well-heeled newcomers to buildings like the W New York Downtown (123 Washington St.) and the William Beaver House (15 William St.), where sales prices have topped $3,500 per square foot.

The transformation of the nabe has also drawn high-end retailers, such as Hermes (15 Broad St.) and Tiffany & Co. (37 Wall St.).

Even with all this luxury, FiDi offers a lot of bang for the buck. Relative bargains can be had in many new buildings, where prices are often $1,000 a square foot or less. Rentals, too, trade at lower rates than the rest of Manhattan, and typically offer more space and better amenities than other downtown neighborhoods like SoHo and TriBeCa. And while some of the daily amenities might be lacking -- as of early 2008, Gristedes was the area's lone grocery store -- residents are well positioned to score bargains at discount department store Century 21.

Winter Attraction Still on Ice

What ever happened to the South Street Seaport ice rink as promised by flyers and news reports of its opening after Thanksgiving?



On www.thenewseaport.com, this is the only information available about the rink:

Welcome to Seaport Ice, downtown Manhattan’s newest winter attraction. Amid the visual splendor of tall ships, skyscrapers, and New York Harbor, this 8,000 sq. ft. ice skating rink offers a unique skating the whole family can enjoy. Seaport Ice’s convenient location and variety of activities promise to provide a winter full of fun.

The Seaport Ice Rink opens to the public in early December 2008.

Update: BPC West Thames Street dog run

Old designs of the West Thames Street dog run are only "placeholders"--a mistake by the Department of Transportation's presentation to the Community Board 1’s Battery Park City Committee.

"The redesigned West Thames dog run will open at the end of 2009 or beginning of 2010, said Adam Levine, spokesperson for D.O.T. It will take about two months to construct, and the D.O.T. will work with the community on finding a temporary run for the dogs during construction. The dog run is part of the state’s larger Route 9A reconstruction, which includes park space alongside the road. The dog run or surrounding parkland could be a future landing place for a bridge over the West Side Highway in southern Battery Park City, once the Rector St. bridge comes down in several years."

"Jeff Galloway, co-chairperson of the BPC committee, said the West Thames dog run is the most heavily used in Battery Park City, partly because many Financial District residents bring their dogs there as well. On a recent frosty night, Galloway noticed that Battery Park City’s many parks were all but empty — but the dog run was full and bustling."

Full article from Downtown Express

Dressed for the elements

For many people, Halloween is the only time of year to have fun dressing up, including their pooch. At the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade this year, that's what dog owners had, a lot of time and creativity. The most memorable one is the iPup pictured here from last year. Check out this year's Best in Show.

While some people think putting dogs in clothes is cruel or silly, dog shoes actually protect a dog's feet from rock salt during the winter. Rock salt goes up between their paws on heavily salted sidewalks, and it can actually burn their skin. Also, putting sweaters or rain gear on dogs is recommended for protection from gale and rain.

Happy Howl-O-Ween

Sad news...Agni passed away Oct 25

We are saddened to receive the following letter from Sung-Hee with regards to Agni:

Hello, friends!

I am writing to you to let you know that on October 25 about 1AM local time, Agni has passed away. He was suddenly hit by a car, and he died within 10 minutes in my arms.

Agni's time in Scotland was a happy one. Running around on grass and chasing bunny rabbits was his new pastime, and he was happy being outside even if the weather wasn't great!

I do apologize to all of you for not having been in touch sooner, but
our adjustment here in Scotland has been a difficult one.

I want to thank all of you for your love for Agni. He loved all of you and your doggies as well.

Love,
Sung-Hee

Our thoughts are with you.

Seaport ice rink expected to open after Thanksgiving

Lower Manhattan’s only ice rink will open the day after Thanksgiving at Pier 17 in South St. Seaport.

The 8,000-square-foot rink with room for up to 325 skaters will be open to the public seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Nov. 28 through Feb. 28. The entrance fee will be $5, with rental skates available for another $7.

General Growth Properties, the owner of the Seaport, announced the plans to Community Board 1’s Youth and Education Committee Tuesday night.

Full article by Julie Shapiro from DowntownExpress.com

Queens couple busted by the ASPCA

One Queens couple was busted by the ASPCA yesterday when it was discovered they were housing 33 poodles. The NY Post reports on the world's cutest infestation (with a photo gallery!), saying animal rescuers were called to the elderly owner's home and noted that the dog's conditions were "deteriorating quickly." One rescuer told the paper: "I can't even describe what it was like in there. This was 33 dogs in one home, they weren't going outside and they weren't being
walked." The couple isn't facing criminal charges, and one poodle going back to the owners as a pet. The rest of the dogs are now "being groomed and given care at the center before being put up for adoption." --Gothamist

LPC yet to vote on Pier 17 redevelopment

The Landmarks Preservation Commission will be the first government agency to formally review General Growth’s project, with the first hearing set for Oct. 21. General Growth needs approval for three actions in the South St. Seaport Historic District: to demolish the Pier 17 mall, to build low-rise retail and a boutique hotel on the pier and to move the Tin Building from the base of the pier to the water’s edge.

Municipal Art Society's Lisa Kersavage (left) and Melissa Baldock (right) demonstrate the difference a proposed tower would make to the South Street Seaport skyline. They and other civic advocates say redevelopment will compromise the character of the skyline.

Simeon Bankoff, executive director of the Historic Districts Council, called the redevelopment plan a “disaster.” “It's a unique place that is unparalleled in this city,” Bankoff said. “To create this glass wall...destroys the scale, the ambiance, the spirit of the Seaport.”

Full article by Christine Lin from epochtimes.com

GGP ready to build school with Pier 17 redevelopment

General Growth Properties made its first firm promise last week to build a school in the Seaport, as long as the city is on board.

If the School Construction Authority determines that Lower Manhattan needs more school seats, “I’ll do it,” said Michael McNaughton, a vice president with G.G.P. “I’ll do it.”

The school would be one piece of the community amenities package General Growth is offering in exchange for its South St. Seaport project. G.G.P. hopes to demolish the Pier 17 mall, build a 495-foot condo and hotel tower just north of Pier 17, build lower-rise retail and a boutique hotel on the pier and move the historic Tin Building to the pier’s tip.

Full article by Julie Shapiro from DowntownExpress.com

Pet policies, rules, and applicable laws for dog owners in cooperatives and condominiums

Many New York City cooperative and condominium owners consider their pets to be members of their families. At the other end of the spectrum are people who may have violent allergic reactions when they come into contact with dogs, or who just prefer not to share their common living space with someone else's four-legged friend. The boards of directors of cooperatives, and the boards of managers of condominiums, weigh these competing interests and try to enact and enforce pet policies and rules that best serve the residents of their buildings while also taking into account applicable laws. Read the full article from Stephen M. Lasser from njlawblog.com

Making it easier for NYC dog owners to renew licenses

Dog licenses cost $11.50. Renewals are $8.50 for spayed and neutered dogs and $11.50 for dogs that have not been fixed. Mayor Bloomberg said the city relies on self-enforcement by pet owners.

"I think it's just not practical to have our Police Department or Parks people run around and try to give out tickets," Bloomberg said at a recent news conference to announce the online license service.

"This is one of those things that we just have to depend on the good will and the common sense of the public and hopefully they'll get the message," he added. "You can enforce the pooper-scooper law but going into parks and assigning to check dogs for licenses just isn't something we're likely to do."

See full article at NYDailyNews.com

Tompkins Square Park dog run facelift

If the skyrocketing price of gas put a damper on you and your pooch's summer travel plans, one fun option to consider is a "staycation." After all, with miles of sandy beaches, nature trails and upwards of 50 dog parks around the city to choose from, there are plenty of canine adventures to be had right here in our urban backyard.

A chance to check out the newly renovated Tompkins Square Park dog run, the city's first pooch park, is a good reason to head with Fido to the East Village.

After a nine-month face-lift, the 18,500-square-foot oasis reopened two weeks ago to much fanfare - and tail wagging. It's every urban dog's dream, boasting three bone-shaped doggy pools, a water fountain and a deck surface made from a paw- and eco-friendly decomposed granite called brownstone screening, designed to facilitate draining.

"I never thought it would come out so great," said the dog park's volunteer manager, Garrett Rosso. The $325,000 renovation, a collaborative effort between the city's Parks Department and the local Friends of First Run, which contributed $50,000 to the renovation, was more than four years in the making.

Full article by Amy Sacks from nydailynews.com

Don't be sad...I am going to see you again

At right, Bernann McKinney with a descendant (sort of) of her beloved pit bull, Booger. She paid $50,000 (with a publicity discount) for five clones.

The only two laboratories known to have successfully cloned dogs, both based in South Korea, are producing a steady string of genetic copies. But as hopes are rising over the country's latest high-tech product, so is an international dispute over who controls the lucrative right to bring back a deceased pet beagle or duplicate a Dalmatian.

The high-stakes battle pits South Korea's best-known cloning experts against each other: One is Hwang Woo Suk, a disgraced scientist now being tried on allegations of fraud for having faked research saying he had created human embryonic stem cells through cloning. The other is his estranged protégé, Lee Byeong Chun, who also has been indicted on fraud charges.

In 2005, Hwang and Lee created the world's first cloned dog, Snuppy. But since then they have split into rival laboratories, each vying to become the world's top animal cloning center. The competition is spurring technological advances, bringing down the cost of cloning dogs and raising the prospects for a new South Korean export industry.

So far the two laboratories have produced a total of more than 50 cloned dogs, and more are in the works. While most of these were produced in the line of research, an increasing number are being cloned commercially, including a pit bull named Booger.

Full article by Choe Sang-Hun at iht.com

GGP plans for Seaport on display

Seaport residents and visitors who want to see how General Growth Properties’ plans for Pier 17 compare to the pier’s history have to look no further than “Seaport Past & Future,” a new exhibit on Front St.

The exhibit traces the Seaport’s history from 1850 to the present and also includes the first public look at architectural models of General Growth’s plans.

General Growth is sponsoring the exhibit, which opened this week and features models by SHoP Architects of General Growth’s proposed 495-foot hotel and condo tower next to Pier 17 and a smaller boutique hotel, lower-rise retail and a large open plaza on the pier.

Full article by Julie Shapiro from DowntownExpress.com

CB1 demands a new school before approving Pier 17 redevelopment

Manhattan’s Community Board 1 is demanding that the redevelopment of the South Street Seaport include a new school and parks in exchange for their support for the proposal. General Growth Properties is redeveloping the area and in order to gain approval will need support from the Community Board as part of the City’s Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP). CB 1 members also expressed concerns with the size and density of the proposed hotel/apartment building planned for the pier. See full article here.

Have you watched Greatest American Dog?

Even if you haven't watched, you're sure not to miss it on the streets of Manhattan, if CBS hasn't tried to brand the show everywhere and on anything.

CBS literally "puts on the dog" to promote Greatest American Dog, a reality series that bows tomorrow night. The campaign is a mix of traditional and non-traditional marketing, with some elements created in collaboration with the network's media agency, Initiative. The campaign spans out-of-home, online, in-store, print, radio, cable and cinema advertising. George Schweitzer, president of CBS marketing, pointed to several of what he deemed to be "unique promotions," such as an alignment with Dogster.com, "the Facebook for dogs," in which the network takes over the homepage of the site and introduces a "fan club."

Full article by Shahnaz Mahmud from AdWeek.com

Two pit bulls mauled Staten Island man

Two pit bulls mauled a 90-year-old Staten Island man yesterday, leaving him with at least one amputated leg, authorities said.

Henry Piotrowski was walking in front of his house at 94 John St. in Port Richmond at 11 a.m. when the vicious canines set upon him from a neighbor's yard, police said.

Cops said a 10-year-old boy had left the gate open, letting the dogs out.

Full article by Matt Richardson and Jamie Schram at NYPost.com

South Street Seaport Redevelopment Presentation

If you are interested in learning about the plans for the redevelopment of the South Street Seaport, please attend the next meeting of the SB Parent and Youth meeting on Monday, June 30th. Representatives of the developers, General Growth Properties, will be there to do a presentation. This will be the first item on the agenda, starting at 6:30 p.m. It is critical that the developers hear from the community on this project that will have a significant impact on our neighborhood:

Monday, June 30, 2008, at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Southbridge Towers Management Office Board Room
Agenda: General Growth Properties (South St Seaport) Presentation

South (of the Bklyn) Bridge Parent and Youth Association, Inc.
90 Beekman Street
New York, NY 10038

Puppy Portraits

This weekend, Kenzo was lucky enough to be the subject of fashion (and now canine) photographer Joanna Totolici.

Dog portraits have been around for centuries and span cultures. In the Chinese Imperial court, pekes were immortalized in watercolor. In 18th and 19th century England, oil paintings were commissioned of hounds. A few years ago, a sketch of a spaniel by Sir Edwin Henry Landseer fetched $11,950!

If you've never attended a photoshoot, it's hard to appreciate the difficulty of getting the perfect shot. The right pose, lighting, and composition. It can take hours. And that is when you're working with professional models. Now, try telling a 1-year old puppy to hold still while flashes are going off and a bunch of strangers are coaxing him with toys and treats. Joanna was amazing. Kenzo, for his part, was not a natural. He kept wanting scamper off the backdrop to cuddle with his momager. Eventually, he got the hang of it and even, dare I say, started to like it. I like to think of the picture above as his interpretation of Blue Steel.

Fortunately, I do not yet have the Linda Evangelista of dogs, but I have noticed lately that he won't get out of bed for less than 10,000 belly scratches.

Joanna's work (http://www.totolici.com/) has been featured in magazines including Nylon, Lucky, Surface, and New York Magazine. Kenzo, a peke-tzu, has been photographed for the MoMA and the Kodak Gallery.

A redeveloped Pier 17 favored by Bloomberg admin

General Growth Properties, Inc., assumed control of the Seaport following a merger with The Rouse Company in 2004, has posted massive plans and grand vision of a new Pier 17 on a comprehensive website www.thenewseaport.com

"General Growth and its architect, SHoP Architects, have said that the 42-story apartment/hotel tower has been designed to lessen its visual impact and that by stacking floor area vertically, open spaces would be created along the pier." Current zoning allows only buildings up to 350 feet in height, and this tower will be 495 feet.



District 1 Councilman Alan J. Gerson said "Essentially, it's a hotel complex that other people will be able to walk around...It's a net loss of public space. It's inconsistent with our efforts to open up the waterfront," and contends that open space was different than truly public space, and that the plaza on Pier 17 would have a luxury hotel on one side and a restaurant and event space on the other."



*Thanks to Richard and Lisa for sending this article and this article along.

Update: EDC plans for the East River Waterfront Park dog run

On Tuesday, June 10, 2008, Richard, Shannon, and Jack, members of the Coalition Of Dog Owners/Lovers For A Dog Run, met with Geeta Uhl and Nicole Dooskin, of the NYC Economic Development Corp, to address some important issues that arose after reviewing the plans for the permanent dog run, at the offices of Ken Smith Landscape Architects, on May 14, 2008. Nicole Dooskin, as Senior Project Manager for Development at the EDC, set the agenda for the meeting, with the following initial conclusions:

1. It was established that the Coalition Of Dog Owners/Lovers For A Dog Run is not a legal or formal entity; rather it is a like-minded group of dog owners/lovers residing in the neighborhood of the Financial District and Seaport/Civic Center where the EDC will be constructing the proposed East River Waterfront Park.

2. The Park will have 24-hour security, and their personnel will lock the dog run, after a still to-be-determined time at night.

3. While the maintenance of the Park will remain the responsibility of the EDC, they will not participate in any sanitation or general clean-up maintenance of the dog run. The conditions in the dog run will be the sole responsibility of the dog owners utilizing the facility. It is possible that the EDC might provide fresh surfacing materials on a yearly basis if needed.

4. The height of the dog run enclosure will be reduced from the original 10' to 4' or 5'.

5. The EDC inspection found there to be no evidence of roosting or nesting birds under the FDR Drive in the proposed vicinity of the dog run; however, they may provide anti-bird nesting barriers if needed.

6. The EDC cannot clean up the scaling paint and other falling debris from the underside of the FDR Drive; this the responsibility of the US Highway Department, which is obligated to clean and paint this area every 15 years, (We believe they have another 10 years left for their scheduled maintenance).

7. The parking permissions for the tour busses on South Street, parallel to the FDR Drive, adjacent to the proposed dog run location, will be eliminated as needed.

Phase one of the Waterfront Park, which includes the dog run, is expected to begin in August/September this year, possibly taking most of 2009 until completion. The meeting was adjourned with the understanding that as the planning for the dog run proceeds the Coalition Of Dog Owners/Lovers For A Dog Run will be consulted as needed.

Any questions or comments about the planning for the dog run will be appreciated; click on the comment link directly below this blog entry.

East River Waterfront Update

According to NYC Department of City Planning, several major milestones have been reached:

-funding for implementation has been secured from the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation;
-Final Environmental Impact Statement was adopted by the LMDC;
-schematic design has been completed;
-design development is nearly complete;
-ULURP approvals were granted for the disposition and site selection of the pavilion component, the RFP/RFEI process for the pavilion component, and overall design.
-the Project is under review by the Art Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Army Corps of Engineers for various federal, state, and local approvals



"The proposed East River Waterfront Project brings innovation to the integration of the city and the post-industrial urban edge creating unique waterfront amenities and recreation space. Unlike the picturesque tradition which is prevalent in parks around the city, the East River Waterfront seeks to embody its long history as a working waterfront and embrace contemporary modern infrastructure, such as the FDR Drive (constructed following the decline of the area’s maritime industry.) For years, one of the most magnificent waterfronts has lacked amenities and been disconnected from the city. Now the City is preparing to begin construction on a two-block portion of the Esplanade from Wall Street to Maiden Lane in Community Board 1. This portion will showcase the Esplanade design including the seating, planting, paving, railing, and lighting that are proposed for the entire Esplanade. In these two blocks, there will also be unique amenities including a dog run. Construction is slated to begin in early Fall of 2008. Plans are also being developed for subsequent phases of the esplanade, Pier 15, and Pier 35."

For more info, go to http://www.nyc.gov/html/dcp/html/erw/index.shtml

Back in 1989

Published in NYTimes June 15, 1989, this letter describes a very different world for dogs. Post your comments or stories at the bottom of this article.

To the Editor:

Thomas B. Morgan is right on target about ''the absurd rules'' for New York parks (Op-Ed, May 30). As dog owners who are members of the New York City Coalition for Dogs, we have felt hounded by Parks Commissioner Henry Stern's green-shirted park rangers, who tear Rambo-
like in green vans through Central Park in pursuit of our leashless pets. We believe the pooper-scooper law is reasonable. But what sense does it make to rule that our dogs can be exercised off leash only between 6 A.M. and 8 A.M.? Those of us who work at night are still asleep.

The new rules that went into effect on June 1 are even more draconian. Now we hapless dog owners can be fined $1,000 should our best friends happen to ''urinate on the grass.'' They will be ''seized and impounded'' should they dare to saunter off-leash at our side. Their owners will be taken away in handcuffs if they dare to protest. And they have been. It seems that the more powerless officials are to control crime in the parks, the more they try to make dogs the goats. Chasing down family pets is safer (and more lucrative) sport than going after drug dealers and rapists.

Our city is becoming increasingly divided against itself. ''Children before dogs!'' is a rabid anti-dog group's slogan. But our children have always grown up together with dogs - with Lassie, Toto, Sandy and Rin Tin Tin. Dogs are famous for saving children's lives. Children are safer if their dogs can go with them to play in the parks.

We ask that family dogs have special hours to play and exercise off-
leash, as they have in other cities. We suggest 6 A.M. to 10 A.M. and 4 P.M. to closing time. We reject the large fines and continual harassment from green-shirted Rambos. Either this administration modifies the absurd new dog rules or we dog owners will unleash our real power. We can vote, even if our dogs can't.

BETTY JEAN LIFTON JANE O'REILLY
New York, May 31, 1989

Increase in Fines and Sanitation Agents on Dog Law

Well, we've posted on this site and observed on other dog-related sites, PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOG! Still, we find (or step in) dog waste in our neighborhood. Could it be that there are tourists with dogs that don't know about NYC dog law? or dogs with very DENSE owners. What do you think? Submit your comments at the bottom of this article.

"The city's 311 complaint line received about 3,000 complaints about dog waste last year, up from 2,100 in 2004, and so the Sanitation Department has added seven agents to the task force. In the first 11 months of the current fiscal year, which ends on June 30, they handed out 869 summonses, an increase of roughly 40 percent over the same period a year before.

"The maximum fine, $100, which has not changed since the law was passed, is likely to go up soon: A bill increasing it to $250 is awaiting Gov. David A. Paterson's signature. A spokesman for the governor said on Wednesday that Mr. Paterson was reviewing the measure."

(The parks department, which issues the tickets in city parks, has discretion to fine $50 to $1,000.)"

"The most summonses have been issued in the Bronx, with 335 in the first 11 months of this fiscal year, compared with 215 in Brooklyn, 157 in Queens, 109 in Manhattan and 53 in Staten Island."

"The more people you put out there, the more summonses you get," said Sanitation Commissioner John J. Doherty, who wrote his first ticket as a sanitation enforcement agent in 1973 to a couple who didn't curb their dog. Curbing dogs, or making them go in the gutter as opposed to the sidewalk, was the law at the time. (It is still on the books, but rarely enforced.) "We put more people on it. But still it's not always easy to catch someone."

"To issue a summons, the agent must witness the dog doing its business and the owner walking away. With about a half-million dogs spread across the city's 305 square miles and an offense that can take less than 30 seconds, the odds are against the agents. Most agents find only one or two so-called K-9 violations in progress each day. (The task force also issues $200 fines for dogs that are off-leash, and for throwing household trash in city garbage cans.)" --NYTimes.com

Dog Theme Park in China (2006)

Beijing is a city of at least 12 million people and at least a million dogs.  The policy of one dog per family, considered misguided by many dog owners, was introduced in 2003 but have been only loosely enforced as the city's pet industry has boomed.

Chinese dog lovers eat at the Coolbaby dog restaurant in Beijing May 20, 2006. The newly opened dog theme park, the first in China's capital, has a playground, a swimming pool, obstacle courses, and a restaurant specially designed for pets. Not only can pets have meals together with their owners, but the recipes offered are based on nutritional science and tailored for dogs of different breeds, ages and sizes. [Reuters]

What do you think?  Post your comments by clicking directly below.

Do You Have PetLifeLine?

I found this while searching for references on Pet GPS on Google:

http://www.petlifeline.com/

PET Lifeline identifies you as a pet owner and ensures your pets are
not forgotten or stranded during your emergency.

The PET Lifeline is the only national product of its kind that has the
ability to protect pets in every city, and home in North America.

The PET Lifeline call center is monitored 24 hours a day 7 days a week
with access through- out North America as well as notification access
worldwide via the PET Lifeline web site.

Each card has a unique registered serial number that links all of your
identification to our secure and confidential PET Lifeline database
which contains all the contact information of the people you have
entrusted to care for your pets.

Have you heard about this? do you know anyone who got it for their cat/
dog?

Proceed with Caution: Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza

Please be advised that, for the past few months a number of dog owners who allow their dogs to play, roam, or just walk through the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza, (the public park from Pearl to South Streets, between 55 Water Street and 2 New York Plaza), have been accosted by a Caucasian male of military bearing, wearing conservative business attire, approximately 6’ tall, of stocky build, about 35 years of age, with light balding hair and a moustache. He is hostile to the presence of dogs in this park, and if challenged about their rights to be in this public space, his response may define simple assault; he may also attempt to incite violence. He has maintained that the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza is private property, and has ordered dog owners to “leave my premises”. When questioned about his authority or asked to identify himself he refuses to comply; without his cooperation, he has been described as a head of security for 55 Water Street, which is owned by The New Water Street Corporation, (Retirement Systems Of Alabama), and recently came under the management of Brookfield Properties through their acquisition of Trizec Realty.

The present owners and operators of 55 Water Street inherited the obligations for the maintenance of the public park, currently known as Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza, under the original agreement that permitted the developer of 55 Water Street to demolish four existing city blocks and exceed the zoning limits to construct what was, at the time, the largest office building in the world. Research indicates that the area encompassing the park in question was New York City property at that time and would become Jeannette Park, (which incorporated the very moving glass block Vietnam Memorial inscribed with the letters of fallen New York soldiers). Contrary to the allegations of the security official, it does not appear that title to this park, now known as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza, subsequently passed to 55 Water Street or any other private entity. Upon being confronted by this individual, it only serves to provoke him if one calls his attention to the two metal plaques at both entrances to the park: one giving a brief history of the park, the other stating the New York City Parks Department rules and regulations, with the number 1-800-PARKS.

It should be noted by all neighborhood dog owners that the current Parks Department rules do not prohibit dogs from the park; however, if dog owners have been abusing the privilege of using this park in an unsafe, unsanitary, disrespectful, or annoying manner, the recent hostility of this security official may indicate that this public space may soon be posted as off limits to dogs, as has recently occurred at the Elevated Acre Park, the creation of which was part of the same original agreement with the developers of 55 Water Street, and which formerly permitted dogs on the premises. For many years these parks were friendly spots for dogs and their owners to enjoy the outdoors; however, that has changed with the recent change in management. It is hard to comprehend that Brookfield Properties would permit such a hostile and provocative security official to confront their residential neighbors solely on his own volition. This individual’s “Blackwater” demeanor may not only represent his personal prejudices but may also express his frustration trying to comply with his employers demands: Proceed With Caution.

The Financial and Civic Center Districts of Community Board #1, of Manhattan, are rapidly becoming a mixed use neighborhood, with many new residents moving here with their pets; however, the facilities for these pets has not kept pace. There has always been very limited space for residents to exercise their dogs east of West Street, which may not have been an issue when there were few area residents. The sidewalks downtown are narrow, crowded with office workers, mounded with garbage bags, vendors and bicycles; the narrow East River walkway is currently full of construction barricades and will soon be demolished; Battery Park is entirely off limits to any neighborhood activities, residents are confined to the narrow foot paths that are inundated with tourist groups, the ubiquitous illegal vendors, and bicyclists. All neighborhood dog owners should make a concerted effort to make sure that the only historically open space where dogs could walk unimpeded doesn’t become the de facto property of 55 Water Street by virtue of their banning of dogs, and other neighborhood activities, throughout the entire park. This park is New York City property and, with due respect for the Vietnam Memorial, it should be for the benefit of the growing residential community as well as serving as a fair weather lunchroom and the smoking area of the office workers in our neighborhood.

"Pooper-trator" ticketing at an all-time high

The Dept. of Sanitation reports that 775 tickets for not following the
Canine Waste Law (est. 1978) have been handed out since last July, a
number that has more than doubled since the previous year. It's
expected that number will rise even higher as the temperature does the
same, WNBC reports that Sanitation Commissioner John Doherty says "He
expects more tickets with the warm weather prompting dog owners to
take longer walks with their pets and there's more daylight hours to
spot offenders."

http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/downloads/pdf/public/161-03-notice.pdf

Researchers found birds don’t habituate to the presence of dogs.

Birders and dog walkers both covet precious parkland like Manhattan's Central Park and Brooklyn's Prospect Park, which the Audubon Society lists as important green "islands" for migrating birds. While no endangered birds pass through the parks, conservationists are concerned about birds that fly through and nest there, including the wood thrush, the seaside sparrow and several types of warblers.

So will the new findings galvanize bird watchers to call for dog-walking restrictions in New York City? Probably not in Central Park, according to Nicole Delacrétaz of New York City Audubon, considering the high volume of people who circulate there and the constant chaos of concerts and other noise. She suggested that birds were much more likely to benefit from restrictions in peaceful tracts where dogs can currently run off-leash, like Prospect Park. (scienceline.org)

Large, Black Dogs Go Unwanted

It's not just that large dogs can be frightening: Animal shelters say black dogs of all sizes are difficult to photograph for online listings, and are hard to spot against the shadows of their crates and cages in dimly lighted kennels.

Older black dogs with a little white in their muzzles can look elderly. Bigger breeds like German shepherds or Chows aren't as fashionable as small, cuddly lap dogs.

Then there's the reputation. The idea of a big, black dog unleashing destruction is a common theme in books, movies and folklore as diverse as "The Hound of the Baskervilles," the "Harry Potter" series and "The Omen."

(Read Full Article, by Emily Zeugner, The Associated Press)

Woman Bites Dog Who Attacked Her Dog

Amy Rice feared for her dog's life when a pit bull jumped over a fence into her yard and attacked her pooch. So she took matters into her own mouth. Rice says she bit the pit bull on the nose Friday after trying to pull the dog's jaws off her Labrador retriever, Ella. The dog had jumped a fence to get into Rice's northeast Minneapolis yard, and Rice says she feared the pit bull would kill Ella. "I didn't plan it, that's what happened. I broke the skin and had pit bull blood in my mouth," said Rice, 38. "I knew what happened, and I knew that it wasn't good." The pit bull was quarantined Wednesday by Minneapolis Animal Control officers while rabies tests are being completed. Rice's doctor will determine whether she needs shots for rabies. "I was sure that my dog was dying in my arms; it was horrible," Rice said. Ella is recovering with staples and stitches to her head and a crushed ear canal, but she is afraid to go for walks, Rice said.

(Associated Press)

Winfrey Dedicates Show to Her Late Dog

Oprah Winfrey plans to dedicate a show investigating abuses at puppy mills to her cocker spaniel, Sophie, who died last month from kidney failure. "Sophie gave me 13 years of unconditional love. She was a true love in my life," Winfrey says on the broadcast scheduled to air Friday. (Advance remarks from the show were released Tuesday by Harpo Productions.) The show features special correspondent Lisa Ling investigating puppy mills, which Ling calls "horrific" and "haunting." infrey says the show is "for anybody anywhere who loves a dog, has ever loved a dog, or just cares about their basic right to humane treatment." While Sophie was not a product of a puppy mill, and Winfrey's three current dogs were adopted from breeders, Winfrey says in the future she would look to adopt from an animal shelter. "I would never, ever adopt another pet now without going to a shelter to do it. I am a changed woman after seeing this show," she says.

(Associated Press)

Animal Fair Ranks NYC Most Pet-Friendly

Sponsored by Cesar, the annual Five Dog Bone Awards recognizes the following recipients selected based upon their excellence in pet-friendly travel and product services, as well as their recognition of the importance of people with pets:

Airline: Continental Airlines
Automobile: Volvo
Destination: New York City
Hotel: The Driskill Hotel
Product: Sherpa Bags
Resort: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Shelter: Humane Society of Louisiana

Read more about it on animalfair.com or in the City Room

Dog Prays at Japanese Zen Temple

At a Zen Buddhist temple in southern Japan, even the dog prays. Mimicking his master, priest Joei Yoshikuni, a 1 1/2-year-old black-and-white Chihuahua named Conan joins in the daily prayers at Naha's Shuri Kannondo temple, sitting up on his hind legs and putting his front paws together before the altar. It took him only a few days to learn the motions, and now he is the talk of the town. "Word has spread, and we are getting a lot more tourists," Yoshikuni said Monday. Yoshikuni said Conan generally goes through his prayer routine at the temple in the capital of Japan's southern Okinawa prefecture (state) without prompting before his morning and evening meals. "I think he saw me doing it all the time and got the idea to do it, too," oshikuni said. The priest is now trying to teach him how to meditate. Well, sort of. "Basically, I am just trying to get him to sit still while I meditate," he explained. "It's not like we can make him cross his legs."

(Associated Press)

Updated: NYC Parks Pet Owners Guide, Rules, and Regulations

Catching up on some reading? Stop by NYCGovParks.org to read the latest information for pet owners.

Support Animal Rescue's Food Donations Marketing

"Hi, all you animal lovers. This is pretty simple... Please tell ten friends to tell ten today! The Animal Rescue Site is having trouble getting enough people to click on it daily to meet their quota of getting free food donated every day to abused and neglected animals. It takes less than a minute (How about 20 seconds) to go to their site and click on the purple box 'fund food for animals' for free. This doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate food to abandoned/neglected animals in exchange for advertising."

theanimalrescuesite.com

--Richard (Kit)

Park Officials Post Warning in Chelsea Run

Park officials posted a sign at the Chelsea Waterside Park dog run on Thursday after several dogs were reportedly ill from possibly ingesting an unknown drug or substance. The sign states:

WARNING: There have been recent reports of dog illness/injury from an illegal toxic substance that may have been found in the dog run. The Trust is working with the NYC Police Department to investigate and address the situation. We have also implemented more aggressive cleaning and monitoring of the area. All dog run users should use caution while in the dog run.

Read more about this news at NYTimes.com

If you visit this particular dog run and see anything suspicious please report directly to the NYPD and share your comments on this site.

Downtown Express article followup

We would like to call your attention to the, 8/3/07, Downtown Express article about our efforts to get a temporary dog run in our neighborhood. As of today this edition is still on the streets, it has also been posted on ERDOGS.blogspot.com. We think it is important at this time that the neighborhood dog owners/lovers who are interested in having a neighborhood dog run take a moment to read this article, as well as the 8/3/07-CB#1 Resolution, the 7/8/07-update on our progress and site photos, and the 7/6/07-EDC letter and site sketches, which are also posted on ERDOGS. We also urge you to take some time to personally examine the physical site that the EDC and CB#1 feel is the only possible location for the temporary dog run. Many of the neighborhood dog owners we have spoken with have reservations about the EDC's choice of this location:

1. It is one of the few pedestrian corridors from Front Street to the East River, sandwiched between a car parking lot and a commuter bus parking lot; it often has tourist buses parked along Front Street, and the "trinket" vendors congregate here because of the pedestrian traffic. The dogs and their owners will have to breath the exhaust fumes from the parking lots and contend with the trash that the pedestrians and vendors will certainly discard in the dog run.

2. The EDC is unwilling or unable to allocate the funds to hook up to a source of water pressure for the one year term that they will permit the dog run to occupy this location. The rebuilding of pier 15, adjacent to Maiden Lane is scheduled to be the first project in the construction of the East River Waterfront Park, therefore their position about the expense to provide an adequate source of water is understandable; however, without pressurized water it will require constant scrubbing with mops and brooms to keep the surface, consisting of paving bricks and iron DEP plates, clean and sanitary. Presently this site, as well as the entire area of the proposed East River Waterfront Park is maintained and cleaned by a private company hired by the EDC. In turn for providing us with a 4 foot fence and a large water bucket the EDC is relinquishing the maintenance of the Maiden Lane portion of the East River Park to the neighborhood dog owners.

Mr. William Kelley, the EDC Manager of the East River Park project, has been attentive to and understanding of the needs of the neighborhood dog owners, he has accompanied members of the Coalition to look over potential sites for the temporary dog run and discussed the water issue with us; however the Asset Management Dept. of the EDC has dictated Maiden Lane as the only possible location for the dog run and will not provide funds to hook-up to pressurized water or consider sites with a potential source of pressurized water due to the short duration of this facility.

At this point it is important to know how many of the neighborhood dog owners plan to use this temporary dog run on a regular basis, of these people how many will volunteer for a regular clean-up shift that will involve mopping and sweeping the area twice daily, and which individuals will be willing to take an active part in the management of the temporary and permanent dog runs by becoming officers and directors of a neighborhood dog owners association. Clearly if the location is unappealing to the majority of the neighborhood dog owners, (after all a dog run is a social place for dogs and their owners, not just a bathroom), then the burden of maintaining and managing the facility will fall on fewer people than necessary, which will inevitably lead to a decline in cleanliness and sanitation, which will make it less appealing to those who use and upkeep the facility, which may lead CB#1 and the EDC to revoke the privilege of having this temporary dog run. From the inception of pursuing a neighborhood dog run in the East River Waterfront Park the EDC has advised us that there are many competing commercial and community users for a very limited amount of available space. At this time they have been supportive of allocating space in the park for a community dog run; if we default in our maintenance responsibilities with the temporary facility we are very likely to lose the chance to have a permanent dog run incorporated in the finished park.

It should be apparent to all interested dog owners how important it is that you examine the materials on ERDOGS, visit the physical site, and respond to this message with your comments on these matters. In the event that not enough dog owners express an interest in utilizing this temporary location and a willingness to take an active role in the maintenance and management of the facility, we feel that it will be disrespectful of the efforts of the EDC and CB#! to accommodate our desire for a temporary dog run and may jeopardize the permanent dog run, therefore we propose to advise Mr. Kelley that the EDC's temporary site is inadequate and we would rather forgo the temporary dog run at this time unless they can provide pressurized water and/or a cleaning crew twice daily.

We hope to hear from you, pro or con, before the end of August, at which time we feel we owe it to the EDC and CB#1 to express the Coalition's intentions before they proceed with the construction to the facility.

Downtown Express

CB1 Resolution for a Dog Run

Please read the following resolution from Community Board 1:

COMMUNITY BOARD #1 – MANHATTAN

RESOLUTION

DATE: JULY 31, 2007


COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: SEAPORT/CIVIC CENTER

COMMITTEE VOTE: 6 In Favor 0 Opposed 0 Abstained 0 Recused
BOARD VOTE: 37 In Favor 0 Opposed 0 Abstained 0 Recused

RE: Request for a Temporary Dog Run in Seaport/Financial District by Coalition of Dog Owners/Lovers for a Dog Run

WHEREAS: The Coalition for a Dog Run has requested that the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) incorporate a dog run into the design of the East River Waterfront Park to serve the Seaport/Financial District residents, and

WHEREAS: The park is in the planning stages and there is a necessity for a short-term solution until the park is built, and

WHEREAS: NYCEDC is proposing the location of a temporary Dog Run approximately 45’ x 90’ beneath the FDR Drive at Maiden Lane, and

WHEREAS: NYCEDC will fund site preparation, provide a source of water and arrange for insurance, and

WHEREAS: The Coalition for a Dog Run will clean and maintain the Dog Run and provide all parties with a list of rule and regulations standard to other dog runs, and

WHEREAS: All involved parties will jointly inspect the Dog Run after 1-2 months in operating to make sure it is functioning to everyone’s satisfaction, now

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED

THAT: CB 1 supports the proposal of NYCEDC to locate a temporary Dog Run beneath the FDR Drive at Maiden Lane until such time as it can provide a permanent Dog Run as part of east River Waterfront Park.

Update: Coalition for a Dog Run

Update: The EDC has been working with us to obtain a location for a temporary dog run that will not interfere with their construction/demolition schedule for the planned East River Waterfront Park (Esplanade); At this time, dog owners should make their opinions about the EDC decisions known to CB#1. There may be issues about the EDC plans that are questionable or controversial, and it is important for those residents east of West Street in CB#1 who want a viable dog run in their neighborhood to voice their opinions at this meeting. See previous post below for sketches of temporary site.

The Coalition of Dog Owners/Lovers For A Dog Run will be updating the Seaport/Civic Center Committee of Community Board #1, on Monday, July 16th, as to our progress toward obtaining a temporary location for a dog run in the area of the proposed East River Waterfront Park. With due consideration for the extensive demolition and construction that will occur in the rather narrow corridor between the Governor’s Island Ferry Terminal and the South Street Seaport, for approximately 2 years, there are important unresolved issues with the location.

We have requested that Mr. William Kelley, the EDC Manager for this project, address the Committee at this time, and have asked that he invite members of other NYC agencies who might be able to contribute to the discussion, to clarify these matters.

This is the last CB#1, Seaport/Civic Center Committee, meeting until the fall and we believe a good turnout of individuals interested in having a dog run in our neighborhood is important at this time. The meeting is tentatively scheduled for Monday, July 16, 2007, at 6 PM, located at 49-51 Chambers Street, room #709.

--Richard (Kit)

Click on thumbnails to view larger images:



Please read the following email from William H. Kelley, of the NYC Economic Development Corporation:

July 3, 2007

Michael/Richard-

I have received confirmation from our Asset Management division to install a temporary dog run underneath the FDR Drive at Maiden Lane. This is approximately 300 feet north of the location where a permanent dog run is being planned as part of the East River Esplanade project.

Attached (above) are VERY rough sketches of the location and configuration of the temporary dog run, and are not meant to represent actual designs

Working with Richard Horowitz, Community Board 1 and Councilmember Gerson's Office, we understand the following:

1. EDC will construct a temporary dog run approximately 45'x90' beneath the FDR Drive at Maiden Lane. The fence will be standard 4' chain link with a double gate as shown on the attached documents. We can continue to work out design details through subsequent meetings.
2. EDC will provide a source of water via a "water buffalo," which will be refilled as necessary to provide water to clean the area.
3. Richard Horowitz' group will clean and maintain the dog run, and provide all involved parties with a list of rules and regulations standard to other dog runs
4. All involved parties will jointly inspect the dog run after 1-2 months in operation to make sure it is functioning to everyone's satisfaction.
5. The dog run will be in operation until the area is scheduled for construction of the East River Esplanade. There is no scheduled start date for construction, but it will be at least one year away.

Please let me know if you have any further questions.

Thanks,

William H. Kelley
New York City Economic Development Corporation
110 William Street
New York, NY 10038
(212) 312-4231
wkelley@nycedc.com

Did You Know?

Update: For some time dog owners have been taking their pets to enjoy the "Elevated Acre" park at 55 Water Street; recently a few people were told to leave the premises with their dogs; one dog owner has requested a clarification of the usage regulations for this public area (request expired, no more info to follow).

(Related link: The Municipal Art Society of New York)

About the 55 Water Street Park

Redesigned by Rogers Marvel Architects and Ken Smith Landscape Architecture, this one acre elevated plaza at 55 Water Street in Manhattan is to be reopened today. Elevated plazas are always something of a challenge, and the previous life of this space was less than stellar despite its riverfront location with generous open sky. Indeed the original plaza with its unwelcoming street access was only built to gain a density bonus when the double-tower complex was originally built in 1972.

The Municipal Art Society and the property landlord (New Water Street Corp.) held a design competition in 2002 to revitalize the space. The design by Rogers Marvel and Ken Smith starts by marking the site with a 50-foot-high LED illuminated translucent glass beacon at the northeast corner of the site, which also serves as an additional park entrance via elevator. The primary entrance is a multilevel assent of escalators, stairs and overlooks rising from street level. Above the park unfurls as a broad events lawn of artificial grass surrounded by a stepped amphitheater, and a gently sloping landscaped "Dune," inspired by regional topography, which rises up to a "Boardwalk" terrace overlooking New York Harbor.

Update: Pet Food Recall

The New York Times reports:

The Food and Drug Administration has already banned imports of wheat gluten from China after it received more than 14,000 reports of pets believed to have been sickened by packaged food. And last week, the agency opened a criminal investigation in the case and searched the offices of at least one pet food supplier.

The Department of Agriculture has also stepped in. On Thursday, the agency ordered more than 6,000 hogs to be quarantined or slaughtered after some of the pet food ingredients laced with melamine were accidentally sent to hog farms in eight states, including California.

The pet food case is also putting China’s agricultural exports under greater scrutiny because the country has had a terrible food safety record.

In recent years, for instance, China’s food safety scandals have involved everything from fake baby milk formulas and soy sauce made from human hair to instances where cuttlefish were soaked in calligraphy ink to improve their color and eels were fed contraceptive pills to make them grow long and slim. [more]

Check out melamine image/chemical graphic on Moose's site.

"Year of the Dog"

Hello dog lovers!

Do you find that your love for your dear poochie has grown so much, it has spilled over into a general love for all dog-kind? I've only had my Woody for about five months, and I find myself paying more and more attention to animal rights issues, animal stewardship, and general awareness about our pawsitively awesome animal friends.

Well, along that vein, I wanted to let you know about a movie that comes out today, entitled Year of the Dog. Starring Molly Shannon of Saturday Night Live fame ("Sometimes I like to stick my fingers under my arms and then smell em... like that!"), today's New York Times describes it as:

"...funny ha-ha but firmly in touch with its downer side, which means it’s also funny in a kind of existential way."

To read more about the movie, get show-times and venues, click on the link below:

http://www.nytimes.com/indexes/2007/04/13/urbaneye/index.html?8ur&emc=ur

Since I'm a recent transplant to New York (from Chicago), I haven't been to the Angelika theater yet, but I hear it is a great venue. I'm definitely going to check it out.

Apropos, a few months ago, this movie could have had a very timely release in the actual Year of the Dog, but as of February 18, it is now the year of the Pig!

Sniffs, snuffs and woofs! -- Woody's mum

Pet Food Recall, Revisited

UPDATE 4/12/2007: "Menu Foods admitted on Wednesday that a "clerical error" caused the company to overlook that it shipped potentially contaminated wheat gluten for pet food from one of its U.S. plants to one in Canada." See also: Clues to pet food recall traced to Chinese city, What is the FDA doing about the pet food situation?, and CBS News reports Menu Foods CFO Sold Shares Before Pet Food Recall

4/5/2007: Okay, can you imagine Fido scarfing down remnants of euthanize animals? go to the TIME article here...is it possible that melamine was added to wheat gluten to increase the protein level in pet food? go to the USA Today report, and here, Andrew Bridges of Associated Press writes:

"The recall of pet foods and treats contaminated with an industrial chemical expanded Thursday to include dog biscuits made by an Alabama company and sold by Wal-Mart under the Ol’Roy brand.

The Food and Drug Administration said the manufacturer, Sunshine Mills, is recalling dog biscuits made with imported Chinese wheat gluten. Testing has revealed the wheat gluten, a protein source, was contaminated with melamine, used to make plastics and other industrial products.

Also Thursday, Menu Foods, a major manufacturer of brand-name and private-label wet pet foods, expanded its original recall to include a broader range of dates and varieties (in U.S. and in Canada).

Menu Foods was the first of at least six companies to recall the now more than 100 brands of pet foods and treats made with the contaminated ingredient. (see also washingtonpost.com)

The recall now covers “cuts and gravy”- style products made between Nov. 8 and March 6, Menu Foods said. Previously, it applied only to products made beginning Dec. 3. In addition, Menu Foods said it was expanding the recall to include more varieties, but no new brands."

So, based on the last few entries this site's tag line should now be Pet Food Recall Site.

Recall Alert: Dingo Treats Tainted with Salmonella

Does your dog enjoy Dingo Jerky Treats? If so, he may also be enjoying a serving of this Salmonella bacteria (shown at right).

Eight In One, Inc., a division of United Pet Group, Inc., is recalling: Dingo CHICK’N JERKY 3.5 oz. and 8 oz. for dogs and Dingo Kitty CHICKEN JERKY 1.5 oz. for cats and Dingo Ferret CHICKEN JERKY 1.5 oz for ferrets--they can be potentially contaminated, which can cause serious infections in dogs and cats. Salmonella can potentially be transferred to people handling these pet treats, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Canada.com reports product recall for our neighbors in the north.

New York State Food Laboratory Discovered Rodenticide in Wet Pet Food

New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets and Cornell University's Animal Health Diagnostic Center are focusing on the toxic substance called aminopterin, which is illegal for use in Cananda and U.S. to kill rodents. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had sent inspectors to Menu Foods plants in New Jersey and Kansas. Most complaints stem from products made at the latter factory, though both received shipments of wheat gluten (used to thicken the gravy in moist foods), identified as a likely source of contamination. The same supplier allegedly originates from China according to ABC News. They are screening pet food samples for substances known to be toxic to the kidneys, like toxins produced by molds. While Menu Foods has not acknowledged responsibility but has apologized to the dog and cat owners who are affected by the tainted food (a multi-million class-action suit was filed in Ontario on Thursday.)

So, what is a Canadian pet food supplier doing buying wheat from China? Global free trade. The same goes for human food: First, this news illustrates how vulnerable our food supply is. Second, there are no exacting standards being applied to foreign foods. You don't know what you're consuming and even when you think it is a local product, raw ingredients come from different sources.

Go to articles, slideshow, and video: Rat poison found in tainted pet food, Pet food maker to take financial responsibility for pet deaths from poisoning and Rat poison discovered in pet food.

See also Kidney Copes With Chronic Renal Failure and Kidney Disease: Treatment

AP photos: (top) Daniel Rogan, 12, holds a photo of his first kitten, nine-month-old Snowball, as he sits in his home with his father Rock Rogan, left, and mother Janet Rogan, right, Tuesday, March 20, 2007, in Mansfield, Mass. The kitten suffered kidney failure and was euthanized two weeks ago after eating tainted pet food according to the family. (bottom) Pebbles, the 7-year-old Yorkshire terrier, who became a symbol of the pet food scare, at Collett Veterinary Clinic in Los Angeles on Wednesday, March 21, 2007. Pebbles died the next day.

Full CB1 Meeting Confirms Request for Dog Run

Good news!

The board of the entire CB1 voted positively to our request to incorporate a temporary and ultimately a permanent dog run in the area of the East River Waterfront Park. This is only a beginning, we must get site and other approvals from the EDC and Parks Dept, then this information must be resubmitted to CB1 for their final OK.

There will be much detailed work ahead and those of us who have been involved to this point would appreciate the assistance of more of the neighborhood dog owners/lovers who will benefit from this amenity.

--Richard (Kit)

CB1 Supports Resolution for Interim Dog Run

We want to advise the Coalition for a Dog Run supporters that our needs have been heard at the Tuesday, March 13th, Seaport/Civic Center, CB1 meeting--the board passed the resolution to incorporate a dog run in the future East River Waterfront Park, and to provide a temporary location, to be determined, for a dog run in our neighborhood.

This is only the first step; there will be a meeting of the entire CB1, Seaport/Financial Districts, committee next Tuesday at which time the full board will vote on the dog run resolution.

We want to thank Amanda, Ayelet, Jack, Shannon, and Sun-Hee for their support by attending this past Tuesday meeting, and we need a good turnout of supporters for the dog run at the forthcoming full CB1 meeting.

We hope you will make the effort and show your sincerity by attending the next CB1 meeting, which will be held on Tuesday, March 20, at 6:00 p.m., at St. Johns University, 101 Murray Street...mark your calendar.

Here is a handout of what we presented to the Waterfront committee:

Pet Food Recall Alert

Canadian pet food manufacturer and contract manufacturer for pet food giant Procter & Gamble, Menu Foods, issued a major recall of 80 brands of dog and cat food distributed to North America produced between December 3, 2006 and March 6, 2007. Click here to check your pet food bar code (UPC).

"At this juncture, we're not 100 percent sure what's happened," said Paul Henderson, the company's president and chief executive officer. However, the recalled products were made using wheat gluten purchased from a new supplier, since dropped for another source, spokeswoman Sarah Tuite said. Wheat gluten is a source of protein. An unknown number of cats and dogs suffered kidney failure and about 10 died after eating the affected pet food," presumably in "cuts and gravy" style cans and foil pouches (The Associated Press). FDA is investigating these brands:

For dogs: America's Choice; Preferred Pets; Authority; Award; Best Choice; Big Bet; Big Red; Bloom; Bruiser; Cadillac; Companion; Demoulas Market Basket; Fine Feline Cat; Shep Dog; Food Lion; Giant Companion; Great Choice; Hannaford; Hill Country Fare; Hy-Vee; Key Food; Laura Lynn; Loving Meals; Main Choice; Mixables; Nutriplan; Nutro Max; Nutro Natural Choice; Nutro; Ol'Roy; Paws; Pet Essentials; Pet Pride; President's Choice; Price Chopper; Priority; Publix; Roche Bros; Save-A-Lot; Schnucks; Springsfield Pride; Sprout; Stater Bros; Total Pet; My True Friend; Western Family; White Rose; Winn Dixie and Your Pet.

For cats: Americas Choice; Preferred Pets; Authority; Best Choice; Companion; Compliments; Demoulas Market Basket; Fine Feline Cat, Shep Dog; Food Lion; Foodtown; Giant Companion; Good n Meaty; Hannaford; Hill Country Fare; Hy-Vee; Key Food; Laura Lynn; Li'l Red; Loving Meals; Main Choice; Nutriplan; Nutro Max Gourmet Classics; Nutro Natural Choice; Paws; Presidents Choice; Price Chopper; Priority; Save-A-Lot; Schnucks; Sophistacat; Special Kitty; Springfield Pride; Sprout; Total Pet; My True Friend; Wegmans; Western Family; White Rose; and Winn Dixie.

--Dirk (Ursa)

Dog Blog in the News

From the online Tribeca Tribune article by Andrea Appleton:

CB1 Committee Calls for Seaport Dog Run

It’s been a long time coming, but Seaport area dogs may soon have their day. Last month, Community Board 1 unanimously passed a resolution urging the city to create a temporary dog run in the eastern side of Lower Manhattan.

“There are many dogs in the neighborhood whose needs are not being served, nor are the members of the community,” Richard Horowitz of the East River Dog Owners Group, a new coalition of dog owners from the Seaport and the Financial District, told the board before the vote.

Board member Jeff Galloway, head of the Battery Park City Dog Association, chimed in with his support. “The dog runs in Battery Park City have become really nice community facilities,” he said. “People who are not even dog owners gather around them.”

Several members of the East River Dog Owners Group had appeared before the Seaport/Civic Center committee earlier in the month to plead their case. At that meeting, Horowitz pointed out that there is now only one dog run Downtown east of West Street, at Fish Bridge Park.

The group proposed that a temporary dog run be built in the Seaport until the East River Waterfront redevelopment is eventually completed. Horowitz said the group had received a positive response from the Parks Department and the Economic Development Corporation regarding the incorporation of a permanent dog run as part of the redevelopment.

Five members of the group came to that meeting, bringing with them a petition signed by 130 dog owners, and proposals for where the dog run might be located. “These are what we consider to be underutilized spaces,” said Horowitz, pointing to photos of six different sites in the Seaport. They included an area under the FDR drive near Wall Street, portions of Pier 13, Pier 11 and Pier 16, and even a floating barge. If EDC and the Parks Department agree to install a temporary dog run, the group must appear before the committee again with site plans.

To the question of who would keep the dog run clean and well maintained, Horowitz said it probably would be the dog owners.

Meanwhile, local dog owners are uniting. In January, they created their own dog blog (erdogs.blogspot.com), with updates on the dog run, as well as postings on everything from dog-friendly eateries to how to administer canine CPR. Portraits of local dogs, from Moose to Butch to Daisy (in a polka-dot sweater) welcome visitors.

Important Update: Coalition for a Dog Run

Please read the attached response, from Michael Levine, of CB1, to our request to have the issue of a dog run in our neighborhood taken into consideration at the March 13, 2007 meeting. Clearly, it is imperative that all those who are serious about a neighborhood dog run contact one another about their intentions to attend this CB1 meeting and plan a presentation in advance of the meeting.

It would be best to make contact through ERDOGS (If you can attend, please send us an email or ENTER YOUR NAME IN THE "COMMENT" LINK at the end of this post); there may be individuals who visit the blog but for one reason or another do not have their email addresses on the Coalition mailing list.

Dear Dog Owners/Lovers for a Dog Run Coalition members, Thank you for submitting you request for a dog run in the Seaport/Financial District area. I have placed your request on the agenda of the next Seaport/Civic Center Committee meeting for a presentation and resolution. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 13, 2007 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. (250 Broadway, Assembly Room, 19th floor) ORIGINAL LOCATION: CB1 offices at 49 Chambers Street, Room 709. Please confirm your attendance and let me know who will be attending. We look forward to seeing you at the meeting. Michael E. Levine Director of Planning and Land Use Community Board #1 49 Chambers Street Room 715 New York, NY 10007

--Richard (Kit)

*Don't forget to arrive early--the Civic Center building entrance will require people to go through metal detectors and bag checks, and Room 709 is a big office with approx. 20 chairs around the room with the committee members at a center table.

Support from NYC Parks & Recreation

Please read the following Letter, from Adrian Benepe, of the City of New York Department of Parks & Recreation:

February 27, 2007

Coalition of Dog Owners/Lovers for a Dog Run
c/o Mr. Richard Horowitz
66 Pearl Street, #306
New York, NY 10004

Dear Mr. Horowitz, Ms. Stone, Mr. & Mrs. Jasie, and Mr. Chen:

Thank you for your letter requesting a dog run in East River Waterfront Park. We fully support dog runs at the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation and see their value to growing residential communities.

The New York City Economic Development Corporation owns the land under which East River Waterfront Park will be built, and they are managing the planning and design of the park. However, Parks is consulting with them on various issues. We therefore intend to encourage them to include a dog run (or perhaps several) along the length of the project.

We additionally encourage you to contact the Economic Development Corporation to further express your goal. The new president of EDC is Mr. Robert Lieber. EDC's project manager for the East River project is William Kelley. He can be reached at 110 William Street, New York, NY 10038 or at wkelley@nycedc.com

I appreciate your taking the time to share your concerns with me.

Sincerely,

Adrian Benepe
Commissioner

www.nyc.gov/parks

--Richard (Kit)

Tearing Up the Old Pier Mall

South Street Seaport Mall and the adjoining pier 17 are slated to become the next small boom in residential and commercial real estate--its private leaseholder (General Growth Properties) has plans to demolish Pier 17 and make it an all-purpose use: retail and park spaces, historical maritime facility, and (unobstructed?) open space. (Read more here.)

--Dirk (Ursa)

A Poo Story

Some neighborhood dog owners obviously don't care about the mess their pets leave for others to deal with. At the Vietnam Memorial, the grounds keeper initiated a conversation about the neglect of some dog owners; he said he was fed-up and would complain to the building owners. Many of the dog owners who take advantage of the hospitality of the building owners, those responsible for the maintenance of this memorial, don't think it can or will ever end. We all have been there before and know it can.

So, if you didn't already hear, the maximum fine for not curbing your dog may jump from $100 to $250. Read more here.

UPDATE: Cloe and Speedy, Shocked!

Meanwhile, a German shepherd mix named Cloe and a mini dachshund named Speedy were possibly shocked yesterday when they touched scaffolding in the Financial District, witnesses said.

Dog walker Jamie Philips, 33, said he had to pry the dachshund off the scaffolding at John St. near William St. and revive him with CPR. Con Ed was investigating the possible stray voltage.

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/local/story/497931p-419747c.html

--Dirk (Ursa)

(also see article from last winter here, and from 2005, and 2004...)

Another Dog Electrocuted (then Resuscitated)

Remind your dog friends and walkers of safety on their walks--avoid any sewer/manhole covers. Also read Gothamist's CPR technique.

Here's a full article from NY1.com:

Second Dog Electrocuted In Lower Manhattan In As Many Days

The combination of the salted side walks, melting snow and electricity has proven to be a dangerous mix after two dogs were reportedly electrocuted in Lower Manhattan in the last two days. A dog died Wednesday night after stepping on a sewer cover, and another dog may also have been electrocuted while walking on the street this afternoon. Thursday's incident happened on John Street where witnesses say a dog walker was walking three dogs when at least one of them was shocked after leaning against a piece of scaffolding. The dog walker was able to revive the dog, a Dachshund, by giving it CPR. "Somebody that actually works in this building had a suggestion how to bring the dog back by holding its mouth shut and breathing through the nose and pumping on the heart or whatever, and it eventually brought the dog back," said the building doorman. "It was really very terrifying. I knew it was an animal. I didn't know what was going to happen. Of course, it could happen with a child; it could happen with an adult," said a witness. "The dog was very lucky that the dog walker was willing to resuscitate the dog." A Con Ed spokesperson says the stray voltage was apparently caused by lighting on the scaffolding, which is not related to the utility. The utility says it had the building shut off the lighting. Wednesday night, a professional dog walker, says her Boston Terrier "Boston Rob" was electrocuted on Rector Street after he stepped on a sewer cover. "I saw the lady crying, and when I looked over she had her dog in the box," said a witness. "She commented how the dog stepped on the manhole cover, started to cry, started bleeding, and then he just collapsed and dropped dead. She was devastated." Crews from both the Department of Environmental Protection, which is in charge of sewer covers, and Con Ed searched the area for stray voltage but did not find any. New voltage testing requirements were put into place after a woman was electrocuted while walking her dogs in January of 2004. (Copyright 2007 NY1.com)

Unfortunate Losses and Tragedy

Last week we heard that a beloved dog named Otis passed away, and over the weekend, we lost another dog named Ziggy to cancer. Just today a fatal tragedy occurred for another family when a Boston Terrier named Bob was electrocuted on Rector Street between Greewhich and Washington Streets. Bob and his family recently moved to the neighborhood. This happened while a dog walker passed a snow-covered manhole on the block.

A statement released from the walking service stated that Bob started picking up his feet, and as the dog walker picked him up he yelped and went limp in her arms. Bob was rushed to the vet and examined to have died most likely of an electrical shock. Witnesses reported the dog was hopping right before she picked him up. Con Ed and NYPD were on the scene, and after they had cleared the snow they discovered a sewer cover below. Cause for this unfortunate tragedy is still unconfirmed.

PETA warns against leaving animals outside in freezing temperatures

For Immediate Release:


Syracuse, N.Y. — Every year, PETA receives complaints about dogs who are left outside in the cold. Although they are equipped with fur coats, dogs and other animals can still suffer from frostbite, exposure, and dehydration when water sources freeze. Cold weather spells extra hardship for “backyard” dogs, who often go without adequate food, water, shelter, or medical care.

As your area is being blasted with cold weather, will you please consider sharing the following information with your audience to help protect animal companions?

·Keep animals inside, particularly puppies and kittens, elderly animals, small animals, and dogs with short hair, including pointers, beagles, pit bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans. Short-haired animals will also benefit from a warm sweater or coat on walks.

·Don’t allow your cat or dog to roam freely outdoors. During winter, cats sometimes climb under the hoods of cars to be near warm engines and are badly injured or killed when the car is started. (To help prevent this, bang loudly on the hood of your car before starting the engine.) Animals can also become disoriented when there is snow or ice on the ground. More animals are lost during the winter than during any other season.

·Increase animals’ food rations during winter because they are burning more calories to keep warm. Also, be sure that animals are free of internal parasites, which can rob them of vital nutrients.

·Keep an eye out for strays. Take unidentified animals inside until you can find their guardians or get them to an animal shelter. If strays are skittish or otherwise unapproachable, provide food and water and call your local humane society for assistance in trapping them and getting them indoors.

·Wipe off your dogs’ or cats’ legs, feet, and stomachs after they come in from the snow. Salt and other chemicals can make your animals sick if they ingest them while cleaning themselves.

·When you see dogs left outdoors, provide them with proper shelter. Doghouses should be made of wood (because metal is a poor insulator) and positioned in a sunny location during cold weather. Raise the house off the ground several inches and put a flap over the door to keep out cold drafts. Use straw for bedding—rugs and blankets can get wet and freeze.

--PETA

Parks to Hold Public Hearing on Leash Laws

BY LAUREN JOHNSTON for amNY.com

The Parks Department will hold a public hearing on proposed changes to its dog leash laws Feb. 22, kicking off the final phase of a long-running debate over where and when the city's 1.4 million pups may run off-leash.

For more than 20 years, many parks have followed an unofficial policy which allowed dogs to roam off-leash in designated areas from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. Last May, a Queens community group filed suit against the city to challenge that practice, claiming it violated city health codes.

Anti-off-leash groups say untethered dogs are a threat to other park users while pro-dog groups say socialized, well-exercised dogs are less aggressive.

After several barking matches between dog proponents and foes, the Board of Health voted unanimously on Dec. 5 to amend the health code, allowing off-leash hours in parks that do not have dog runs.

Previously it had stated dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.

Now Parks will begin its process of deciding whether to formally amend its laws on the books, and will accept comment from city residents before it makes a decision.

"The proposed amendment will simply ensure that Parks rules and regulations mesh neatly with the rules and requirements of other state and local agencies regarding dogs," a notice from Parks officials stated.

The Parks hearing will be held Feb. 22 at the Chelsea Recreation Center located at 430 West 25th Street at 1 p.m.

Those in attendance will have three minutes before a panel of Parks Department officials to present arguments either for or against rule changes that would cement designated off-leash hours.

Written statements can be mailed to the following address and must be received by 5 p.m. Feb. 22 to be considered: New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, Office of General Counsel – Alessandro G. Olivieri, 830 Fifth Avenue, Room 313, NY, NY 10021.

--Richard (Kit)
Copyright 2007 Newsday Inc.

News on Pier 15

City balking on rec field for East River's Pier 15

The city's plan for the East River waterfront, seen here last fall, includes commercial space on a rebuilt Pier 15 near Maiden Lane. Officials told Community Board 1 last week that as of now, they would not add a field to the pier plan, but that a field might be included later in the design process.

Ordinarily, it's a good sign when a preview leaves the audience hungry for more. Unfortunately, the city's preview of its latest plan for the East River waterfront left an audience of community members demanding more information and greater assurances that recreational space will not be sacrificed for commercial interests.

“Once you invite the community to have input, we jump right in,” C.B. 1 Waterfront Committee chairperson Julie Nadel told the harried team of city representatives after the Jan. 23 meeting. “Don't look so tired.”

Though the substance of the city's plan for the waterfront park, which will stretch from the Battery up to the entrance of East River Park, has not changed, the board expressed concern over the Economic Development Corporation's upcoming request to “dispose” of 6,000 square feet of space on Pier 15.

The disposition, as it is technically called, would allow the city to lease space on the pier to a commercial tenant — possibly a retailer or a concessions vendor. Under current zoning, the commercial building could be 30 feet high with a setback up to 40 feet. If the request is approved through the city's Uniform Land Use Review Procedure, the city could put the 6,000 square feet of commercial space anywhere within a 21,500 square foot “envelope” on the pier. The city is asking for seven such envelopes throughout the park, most of which would be located in pavilions under the F.D.R. Drive.

The E.D.C. added that the city may ask for more dispositions in the future, prompting committee member Joe Lerner to retort, “You mean that if it makes you money, you'll come back for more land.”

--Dirk (Ursa)
Excerpted from full article by Skye H. McFarlane for Downtown Express

Coalition for a Dog Run : Updated Jan. 23

We would like to thank Amanda (Tyras) and Jack (Moose) for attending the January 22nd CB1 meeting of the Waterfront Committee. We had the opportunity to present the following materials to the Committee, although we were advised that the regular CB1 meetings (Seaport and Financial District) were more appropriate venues for our request that a dog run be incorporated in the East River Park. It would be encouraging if more dog owners who desire a dog run in our neighborhood attend these meetings, (dates and times to be announced).

Possible locations for a temporary dog run, until such time that the Economic Development Corporation plans are further along:

1. Underneath the FDR drive close to Wall St.: The rectangular area with corners anchored by the four columns, (#10 to #11), supporting the FDR drive, does not serve any particular current use. The size of the area is approximately 34’ x 80’, (Attachment 2). A fire hydrant located nearby indicates the availability of water supply. The area can be easily enclosed with minimum investment.



2. Open area close to Pier 13: This is an open area by the river; it should be easy to enclose an area of approximately 45’ x 100’ without taking away very much from any visitor’s view of the East River and Brooklyn. There should be a water supply close by since Pier 13 used to have bathrooms and showers, (Attachment 3).



3. Pier 11 adjacent to the sculpture garden: On the right side of the entrance bridge to the sculpture garden, a rectangular area, (Attachment IV, coming soon), can be easily enclosed for a dog run, with benches already situated there. It would still leave plenty of room on the left side for the ferry riders to access Slip E and utilize the garden bridge (See attachment 4).



4. Pier 16: Dog owners have been using the Pier as an unofficial dog run. The current usage of the Pier does not require the entire space. A rectangular area can be easily enclosed in the upper middle of the pier and still leave enough space to facilitate the activities going on the pier, (Attachment 5).



5. A barge similar to the one attached to Pier 11, (Attachment 6): If no inland area is available, a barge attached to the seawall or Pier 11.




To give all those interested in a dog run know what we’re undertaking a copy of a recent NY Times article about the responsibilities and problems of maintaining this type of facility has been included.

--Richard and Kit

New William Beaver Condo, Outdoor Dog Park?

Based on the following description, try to guess where this monument to neoyuppie residential extravagance is being built: A 52-story building features a lobby lounge with ’70s-style living-room pit, cocktail service and a billiards table; a private screening room and nightclub with “cinema beds” for four; a heated “co-ed” lap pool, basketball courts and gym; a covered outdoor dog park; and a year-round outdoor mineral jacuzzi.

South Beach? The O.C.?

Nope. Try Hanover Street, about a cigarette flick from the 103-year-old New York Stock Exchange.

The William Beaver House, as it’s called, is just one of the big-bucks residential construction projects sprouting up in Manhattan’s least hip ’hood for living—the wedge of land defined by the Seaport, the Financial District and everything east of Broadway. In other words, downtown.


--Excerpted from TimeOut New York

Coalition for a Dog Run

Dog Owners Who Want A Dog Run:

Please be advised that there will be a meeting of the Waterfront Committee of Community Board #1 on
January 22, 2007, at 6:00PM, room #709,
49-51 Chambers Street (across from City Hall)

A number of community board and waterfront committee members have stressed to me that it is important to have a sizable turnout of those interested in getting a dog run included in the agendas of the board; clearly numbers count.

It's my understanding that one of the topics of the evening will be the preliminary plans for the waterfront development and park. The room, (#709), is small, and as there are other items on the agenda, it's best to arrive early if one wants to get a seat. Even if you cannot fit into the room, I believe it's important to have a good showing at this meeting, even if some of us have to congregate in the hallway; it's the one where we can get the committee to recognize that there are dog owners in the eastern portion, the financial and seaport districts, of Community Board #1 that are not having their needs accounted for, and the matter should be acknowledged by it's inclusion on the board's agenda for further discussion. The room is small, the available land in the proposed park development is limited, many interests, commercial and otherwise, are making themselves heard, we have to have a decent turnout to get our interests included in the planning stage, otherwise everything will be allocated to other uses.

We hope you can make it on January 22,
Coalition of Dog Owners/Lovers For A Dog Run

--Richard (Kit)