Seek More Freedom for Fido

AVALON – Avalon Borough Council heard a request for greater access for dogs on beaches and the boardwalk during the summer.
A resident told council, Aug. 14, that she has frequently walked her dog on the boardwalk where she can also “enjoy the view of the ocean.” She found the borough has an ordinance in place banning the practice, something she became aware of when police told her to remove her dog from the boardwalk. The ordinance was enacted in 1995.
The ordinance states dogs are not permitted on beaches, boardwalk or dunes from March 1 through Sept. 30. The resident asked for some form of “limited in-season access” to the beaches and boardwalk for dog owners and their animals.
Several communities have loosened access rules for dog owners. Cape May City Council, at its Aug. 6 meeting, heard a report from its Pet Advisory Committee requesting the city alter its ban on dogs at the Washington Street Mall.