Below is the official petition to Bellefonte Borough Council created on 17 September 2023.
To the Honorable Members of the Bellefonte Borough Council,
We, the undersigned concerned residents and dog owners of Bellefonte Borough, approach the esteemed Council with a heartfelt plea to consider the establishment of a leash-free dog park within our community. As responsible citizens, we are committed to the well-being and happiness of our four-legged companions, and we firmly believe that such an endeavor would not only benefit our beloved pets but also enhance the overall quality of life for our residents.
Our request for the creation of a leash-free dog park is grounded in the principles of community engagement and the pursuit of happiness for our residents and their canine companions. We approach this matter with the understanding that our founding fathers cherished the pursuit of happiness as an unalienable right.
In this regard, Thomas Jefferson’s words in the Declaration of Independence are particularly relevant: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” In the 21st century, for many residents of Bellefonte, the pursuit of happiness involves the companionship and recreation provided by their dogs.
Furthermore, it is important to emphasize that Bellefonte Borough’s tradition of community engagement and shared spaces aligns with the establishment of a leash-free dog park. By creating a leash-free dog park, Bellefonte Borough Council would not only enable responsible dog owners to exercise their pets safely and responsibly but also foster a sense of community among residents. This would be a testament to the concept of self-regulation and shared responsibility, a cornerstone of America’s constitutional heritage.
In addition to the philosophical arguments, there are practical benefits to be considered. Statistics show that municipalities with leash-free dog parks experience a decrease in dog-related complaints and incidents. These parks provide a designated area where dogs can socialize, exercise, and release pent-up energy in a controlled environment. This, in turn, contributes to safer neighborhoods and happier residents.
For instance, in a study conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association, it was found that communities with leash-free dog parks experienced a 20% decrease in reported dog-related problems. Moreover, the American Veterinary Medical Association recognizes the importance of exercise and socialization for dogs in improving their overall health and behavior.
Considering these philosophical and practical reasons, we respectfully request that Bellefonte Borough Council seriously consider the establishment of a leash-free dog park, possibly utilizing the Masullo Dog Park or another suitable municipal property. We believe that this initiative will uphold the principles of individual liberty, community engagement, and the pursuit of happiness that our nation’s founders so ardently cherished.
In conclusion, we beseech the Council to embrace this proposal, taking into account the principles that underpin our great nation’s values. By doing so, we can create a more vibrant, harmonious, and happy community for all residents, both human and canine.
Online Petition: https://www.change.org/BellefonteDogPark
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BellefonteDogPark
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bellefontedogpark
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