Irresponsible dog owners cause harm

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to look at Cliff Clemens Park on Larch Street and conclude that it is a children's park, not a dog park, yet people bring their dogs to the park and allow them to run wild. Judging from the amount of dog poop that abounds, these irresponsible pet owners also don't find it necessary to pick up after their pets, even though young children are running about and rolling around in the grass. Eeeew!

So far I haven't heard of a child being bitten, but with warmer weather moving in and more children in the park, it's likely only a matter of time. Last week my little Pomeranian's leg was broken and her chest ripped open by an off-the-leash, out-of-control heeler whose owner refuses to restrain her dog despite repeated complaints from other dog owners, and attacks on other dogs.

Then the owner came to my door, telling me I stepped on my dog and broke her leg, and she wasn't going to pay the $2,400 it's cost me so far in veterinary bills. I suppose the teeth marks are mine, too! The very next day this bully was out in the park, her dog running wild with its leash trailing behind it as if nothing happened. By the way, no rabies shot and no license. It's not the dog's fault it has an arrogant, irresponsible owner.

There are two small signs at the park stating it is the law that dogs must be leashed and poop be picked up, and baggies and trash cans are available. But apparently some people don't believe the leash/poop law applies to them, or they have so little respect for other human beings that they just don't care. The signs could be bigger, more visible, and perhaps state some of the consequences of violating the laws.

After a little investigation, it turns out there is a leash law in Sisters (Chapter 6.12: Animal Nuisance) and just in case someone wants to pursue repeat offenders - and for offenders' information - violation is a Class A civil infraction.

Depending on the circumstances, the Sisters Municipal Court Judge may order the dog's owner to pay restitution, may require the owner to post a $5,000 bond in case of future injuries, may impound the dog and charge the owner for costs, may require the dog be muzzled, order the animal humanely destroyed, or take the animal away from the owner and place it with the Humane Society for adoption.

Increasing public awareness may help put an end to dogs at large attacking other peoples' pets without provocation. Get a copy of the ordinance at City Hall and come to the City Council meeting and express your opinion.

Editor's note: According to the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, the owner of the dog that attacked Ms. Parker's pet was cited for maintaining a dog as a public nuisance, which carries a fine of $435. She was also warned for having an unlicensed dog.