Editor:
Our beloved dog Bailey passed away last week. He was lucky to have roamed our beautiful town and trails for over 14 years. We loved to take him out.
There are a lot of dogs in Canmore and they have the right to enjoy the outdoors as much as anyone, but the poop problem continues to make life unpleasant for all of us. In addition to the smell, there are health and environmental concerns. Google dogs and environmental impact.
Please, pick up in the forest (on and off trails), along our sidewalks and pathways. All us townfolk (this includes kids playing, parents with little ones in strollers, the elderly, vacationers, trail users, etc.) shouldn’t have to watch for minefields. If you’re one of those walkers who leave the bag to pick up on your return, be sure to go back and get it.
As we head into winter, the poop issue only gets worse. The mindset, the snow will cover it up, doesn’t work. A headlamp or a flashlight app on your smartphone will make the job easier after dark. Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it isn’t there.
Thanks to the Town of Canmore who make it easy for us by providing biodegradable poop bags. Take a few extra bags for your pocket, your car, or tie some to your dog’s leash. Bring an extra and as a goodwill gesture, vow to pick up someone else’s, every walk, once a week, or once a month.
Your actions will make a difference. The cleanliness and health of our trails is everyone’s business.
For those not willing to live a life without dogs (and that’s no crime), pick up your dog’s poop and be grateful your furry friend can walk with you. Dogs are with us such a short time. It is our responsibility to look after them in every way and to ensure that we can all enjoy the outdoors together.
Thank you to those who do pick up. Come on Canmore, we can do better than this – don’t be a “CanMORON” – be a Can-(Do)-More-Right.
Rest in peace Bailey. We love you. See you at the Rainbow Bridge.
Jill Branson,
Canmore
