Editor:
     Thank you for your article in the Dec. 7 edition describing the report of the Dog Advisory Committee for Kennebunk Beaches.  The committee monitors and everyone who works with us are grateful for the opportunity to promote and maintain Kennebunk’s dog-friendly approach to public resources, and for the selectmen’s careful and responsible oversight.
     In the article, it was suggested that I said that the committee did not expect much from dog owners.  If I said this, I misspoke.  The committee expects all dog owners to obey the ordinance, come to the beach at the permitted times, pick up their dogs’ waste and keep their dogs under control.  I believe this particular discussion could have referred to the ordinance change we recommended, which is to require owners to carry a leash, which in itself is not a significant additional burden.
     In our ongoing monitoring activities, we continue to see how much effort dog owners do expend, looking after both their pets and helping their fellow dog-owners observe the beach rules.      
    We are fortunate to have such an active and responsible dog-owner community, who make going to the beach a positive experience for everyone.
     The committee remains in place to receive and address any questions, comments or suggestions that anyone might have about dogs on the beach.  Please contact us at dogadvisory@kennebunkmaine.org.  We welcome everyone’s involvement and thank them again for all their cooperation and hard work.
Cathy Connors
Secretary
Dog Advisory Committee for Kennebunk
Beaches