Doggie doo-doo

Dear Dog Lady,

Nothing makes me crankier than people who don’t pick up after their dogs in the city. The other morning, I watched as a woman blithely ignored her Rottweiler while the dog squatted along Huron Avenue and pooped on the sidewalk.

Oblivious, the owner strolled on. I called after her to collect the debris. I even held out a baggie (I carry extras). She shot me an angry glare, called me a foul name, wiggled her finger at her temple in the universal sign for loony, and told me to mind my own business. What could I do but slink away? Her dog was bigger than mine.

-Katie, Cambridge, MA

Katie, you are a good lady. Face the harsh reality that not everyone sees their dog-keeping responsibility as a joyful job to make the environment safe and clean for all canines and humans.

You were right not to tangle with the irresponsible dog owner and her big dog. The best you can do immediately is to report the incident to the local Animal Control office (there’s a pooper scooper ordinance in many cities). Describe the offense and go on record. Also, alert your fellow dog allies in the neighborhood. Concerned urban dog activists work well in packs.

Good for you always to carry extra baggies. There are bound to be grateful takers.

Posted by Dog Lady at March 14, 2003 12:00 PM