[redwitch]

Part of the charm of the squares for me is the dogs (and the occasional kitty in a stroller). Yes, there are risks but I do believe the vast majority of dog owners are very responsible of their pets and their behavior in public. Sadly, it is the 1% that have created the need for polls such as this.]

An aggressive dog should not be brought into ANY public area. Dogs should relieve themselves at home prior to visiting a public area such as the squares. Unless completely hand/voice trained, there is no excuse for a dog to be off of a leash in public. (I once had an Old English that was never on a lead. However, he never once left my side without permission once trained no matter what the temptation or provocation.) If your dog is shy and you're trying to introduce him into society (think a rescue dog), a very short visit to a relatively uncrowded square could probably be a good experience.

People who want to pet the dogs should do so responsibly as well. You don't just walk up to a dog and start petting. Obviously, the owner should be asked if it is okay to pet. So should the dog. Let it sniff your hand, hear your voice.

I really am getting tired of a government/society trying to protect me from myself. Not everything has to be regulated because a very few abuse the situation. Banning dogs because of an incident or two or even three or more is, to my mind, another instance of taking joy away for many because of some.

Okay, off my bandwagon.