New rule to make Monterey more “dog friendly”

There is no shortage of “dog-lovers” in Monterey.

“This is a perfect place to have a dog. There’s no worries,” said Monterey dog owner, Ellias Escareno-Leon.

Until now, the stunning, coastal city wasn’t too welcoming to our “furry friends.” Dogs were previosuly restricted to four areas in the city.

“Monterey residents shouldn’t have to go to Carmel, or neighboring cities, to enjoy time with their dogs,” said Monterey City Councilmember, Alan Haffa.

Haffa was a part of the movement to make Monterey more “dog friendly.” On January 15th, city council voted “5 to 0” to allow dogs on leashes in all public outdoor area, excluding sport courts. The goal is to give owners, and their dogs, more options to explore and play.

“I think it’ll be a good thing because it’ll make people happy and get families together outside,” said Monterey dog owner, Eric Urving,

There is resistance to the new rule. The city said some residents were concerned increased dog-waste would create a health hazard. The city plans to address the concerns with add-ons to the some of their most popular parks.

“We will be putting up “poop scoops” and people will need to clean up after their pets. That’s the main concern. I’m hopeful that Monterey pet owners will be responsible and do the right thing,” said Haffa.

Many of dog owners seem to be willing to take that responsibility. The city said a public survery, that addressed the previous restrictions on dogs, got the biggest response in Monterey history. Owners told the city that their dogs aren’t just pets, they’re family.

“The dogs are our kids. They go where we go, so I think it’ll be a good thing,” said Monterey dog owner, Diane Soratos.

The new rule will go into full effect on February 14th, 2019.