A Feb. 12 letter (“Don’t shut out S. Portland’s dogs,” Page A4) was stunning in the anger displayed toward South Portland residents who want to enjoy Willard Beach in peace and safety. To suggest that folks should go to the Audubon to watch birds reeks of intolerance and unwillingness to compromise. South Portland has one small beach to be enjoyed by everyone.

While I love dogs and have raised several, they are afforded privileges, not rights. It is the humans who fund the maintenance and preservation of our open spaces; no space should be inaccessible to people because of safety.

Additionally, the damage to sand dunes, loss of birds and lack of sanitation from uncollected dog feces are significant. This is not about a “minority opinion,” as the letter writer said. It is about safe access to all city open spaces.

Dog parks do not have to be “restrictive, unsanitary, unshaded (and) grassless” places. There are numerous dog parks with shaded areas, water features and dog exercise components in sanitary conditions. I might add that the one area of grass on beaches (sand dunes) is prohibited for dogs, so “grassless” seems an odd remark. Newly designed dog parks have amenities geared to dogs.

Most cities are not as fortunate as to even have a beach, but South Portland does. People should be afforded safe exploration with family and friends without fear of being knocked down by an unleashed dog.

Sharing the beach and all open spaces is warranted. Compromise and cooperation are key.

Rosemarie De Angelis
South Portland

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