PrintThis article by Joel Levy was published in the April 2, 2009 issue of The Highland Park Mirror.
This month’s column is intended to ruffle a few feathers. Just a few. And if you are one of the people whose feathers are ruffled, I invite you to come see me in person about it, because I’d sure love to see you.
I would really love to find out who it is that thinks it is OK for my children to have to worry about playing on their own lawn, without having to constantly watch out for dog droppings. If you are the lazy, arrogant SOB who thinks it’s their right to leave their dog’s poop where my children play, you are definitely the person whose feathers I intend to ruffle. Do you also leave your garbage on other people’s property?
Perhaps you would like it if I left the same where you sleep, eat, or work? I sincerely doubt it. So what gives you the right, or the audacity to feel that your dog’s poop is so desired by others that you would just leave it out for all to experience?
I love my dog. People see me walking my dog all over town. And like almost all of you, I carry bags with me, so that when my dog does a ‘number two,’ I can immediately pick it up, and dispose of it appropriately.
Maybe it should be fair that my kids can poop where your dog plays, and leave it there. That might be a just measure. On the other hand, there are some standards that are just part of the rules, as civil human beings living in the same town. They are even written down — you will find many signs around town warning of the fines affiliated with not picking up after your dog. That means you too!
Yes I know you love your dog. Yes, I know your dog is a part of your family. 
My staff and I at Family Martial Arts Academy are all avid dog lovers, owners and trainers. All of our dogs come from rescues. We derive tremendous enjoyment from our dogs, and we also participate in the socially responsible custom of PICKING UP THEIR POOP!
The anti-social implications of leaving bacteria-ridden feces on other people’s property is something for the many qualified mental health care professionals in Highland Park to figure out. I don’t really care why. I just want it to stop!
As a parent, I am calling out to all parents who care about the cleanliness of the spaces in which their children play. As a homeowner, and taxpayer, I am calling out to all people who care about the aesthetic qualities of our charming town. Let’s take a stand against all those who feel it is their right to let their dogs dirty our lawns and sidewalks, and coldly move on, without picking it up.
Since this is a safety column, here is the safety message in it. Poop is unsanitary. It is therefore unsafe for the children of Highland Park to be playing in it. PICK IT UP!!!
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