Animal Control Cracks Down on Dogs on Beach in Lower

VILLAS — Shore Animal Control officers are now routinely patrolling the beaches in Lower Township and North Cape May and will be issuing summons for all dogs off leash and for owners that do not clean up after their pets. Most people have been found to be in compliance, but a few continue to feel they and their pets are above the law.
Fines for dogs off leash which will be considered under township code as “dogs at large” can receive fines starting at $100 and going up to $1000 for repeat violations. There will be a no tolerance policy for dogs off leash on the beach as well as dogs at large in the township starting July 2. The animal control company wants to make sure the busy season remain safe for residents and pets. Dogs on the beach and running at large in the township has been a prevalent problem for years and the officials are taking this issue seriously.
In 2009, Lower Township considered rescinding the law allowing dogs on the beach in Lower Township because of numerous complaints about residents not following the law. Linda Gentille, spokesperson for Shore Animal Control, the company which is hired by the township to provide services comments, “Many other towns have rescinded laws allowing dogs on the beach because of violations by residents with dogs. We would like to not see that happen in Lower Township. It is a privilege to have dogs on the beach here, and we are requesting the public’s cooperation in following the rules. We would hate to see the council once again reconsider this privilege which residents now enjoy..”
Beach Etiquette for Dog Owners :
– Always keep your dog leashed when there is a leash law. There is a maximum of 6 feet lead on any leash, so free rein leashes, must be controlled.
– Always clean up after your dog by using a poop bag or pooper scooper and disposing in the proper trash cans.
– Do not let your dog visit with other beach-goers or dogs, unless welcomed and invited.