Did You Know...

05-15-2008 The Vernonia Police Department has fielded numerous complaints recently on stray dogs and dogs being walked off of lease. In particular concern was the number of people walking their dogs at Vernonia Lake off of leash. Citizens have commented that the dogs are chasing adult and baby ducks as well as other animals. The citizens were also concerned for the safety of walkers, joggers, and bicyclists as the dogs off of leash would intimidate others or cause them concern to run/walk by them. Vernonia City Ordinance 558 is the "Dog Control Ordinance" and sets out several provisions to include: All dogs must be licensed through Columbia County, dogs are prohibited from molesting/biting passersby or other animals, habitually chasing persons/vehicles or running at large, destroying others property, scattering garbage, and disturbing the peace by barking for a long, continuous, and unnecessary time, as well as being controlled by a leash to name a few. It is posted that leashes are specifically required in all City Parks. There are several other provisions dealing with leaving an animal alone for over 24hrs and other neglect issues. Fines can range from $100 to $200 dollars for violations. Dog owners are responsible to abide by all sections of the ordinance and can obtain a copy at the Police Department or City Hall. The bottom line is to be a responsible animal owner and to have respect for those that live around you. Dogs can be an excellent asset and crime deterrent for a neighborhood but they must be treated appropriately and controlled by their owners. You will notice on the Crime Blotter that the last item pertains to a 9yr old juvenile who entered two houses and took items. One of those houses was mine showing that even the police chief and his family are not immune to crime. Taken from my house was a two-way radio and $60 cash from a glass jar belonging to my daughter for her trip this summer. Being an advocate of "Crime Prevention" I added a large section to the VPD website giving people tips to protect themselves. Yet, I myself chose to leave my home unlocked as I knew how safe my neighborhood was. That is until my safety and trust were violated. All in all I know that the majority of children in our community are good, honest kids but there are a few that are in need of a directional shift to get them on the right paths.