The signs — and the law — are clear: From April 1 to October 1, dogs are not allowed on Compo Beach.
Or Old Mill, or Burying Hill.
As usual, some Westporters think the rules are merely “suggestions.” An alert “06880” reader writes:
I’m a lifelong Westporter.
My greatest pleasure throughout the years has been to go to the town beaches with family and friends. We visit with one another, swim, walk, and enjoy the sun and fresh air.
We do it every day from May to mid-October, when the water gets too cold to swim. There is nothing better.
Except that a number of dogs show up with their owners after April 1 — despite town laws that dogs are not allowed until October 1.
(Photo/Larry Untermeyer)
I know. You’re surprised that people would be so willing to ignore the signs telling them to “hold it” until the leaves start to turn.
You can’t blame the dogs. They go where they are led. It’s those pesky owners who chomp at the bit to let their “rovers” run free.
We have dogs too. We’ve had them for years.
But we respect the fact that rules are rules. There is a good reason for them — particularly in this instance.
So we don’t bring our dogs to the beach when it’s not allowed. That would be rude and selfish. It would be all about what I (and my loyal friend) would want, disregarding the rules and preference of those who use the beach for all those fun activities I mentioned above.
I’m a little “ruff”led by this lack of courtesy to those of us who want to enjoy a clean beach.
And I’m tired of nicely asking those with dogs to refrain from visiting the town beaches until the calendar turns.
These dogs were legal. The photo was taken on October 11.
If you agree, how do we get the Westport police or dog warden to enforce this quality of life issue. It seems so small, particularly these days, but is really so emblematic of the “me first” mentality that seems to have pattered its way into Westport life?
It’s the small things that often make a difference in the day.
Now how about those speeding cars?
What do you all think?
