Be a Good Dog Owner

Dogs are special members of many families in HOA1. If you are a dog owner, you are certainly aware that owning your pet comes with important responsibilities. The Homeowner’s Association asks that all dog owners and their pets follow “Good Dog” practices and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all park and trail users while preserving wildlife and natural areas.
           
Many people enjoy walking in the parks and on trails with their dogs. Dogs are welcome guests and, like other users, must abide by certain rules. Since dogs can’t read and have certain instinctive habits, we must depend on their owners to keep them from breaking park rules.
           
To keep our parks, trails and open space safe, clean and preserve wildlife and natural areas, the HOA1 Board of Directors asked that homeowners keep a few simple rules in mind for dogs and their owners:

Owners Must Leash Their Dogs

Keeping your dog on a leash will ensure that your dog is not disturbing wildlife, dogs in adjacent yards, children or other people. Be sure your dog stays close to you when other people are nearby. By using this conscientious approach, you’ll give your pet plenty of exercise and allow others to enjoy their activities.

Pick Up After Your Dog

The Association pays almost $5,000 annually for a service to remove pet waste from our parks and trails, but we still need your help. Dog waste in public areas is unsightly, unsanitary and unsafe. There are several diseases which can be spread from dog waste, including Giardiasis, Hookworm, Salmonellosis and other less common diseases.   All you need is a plastic bag, such as a sandwich bag or a lunch bag. Each time you take your dog out for a walk, make sure you have one in your pocket. There are also commercial products available specifically designed for picking up pet waste.