Saco has a unique aspect to its beaches that few other communities can claim: Dogs are allowed to be off leash and can be on the beach at any time, so long as they are under voice command of their owner. Most beaches ban dogs during peak season or at least during peak beach hours, but Saco’s oceanfront allows people to bring their furry companions along at any time, no strings attached.

It’s a set-up that’s apparently worked for all involved for many years ”“ until recently, when the city received a letter of complaint from the Baywood Condominium Owner’s Association. The complaint stated that the number of uncontrolled dogs on the beach has increased and cited concerns that they can be intimidating to beach-goers and also a health hazard when they defecate there.

Since dog owners are allowed to use the beach with their pets, there already exists the expectation that the animal will be under voice command and the owners will pick up any waste they leave behind. It’s when these two requirements of basic decency go unmet that problems arise ”“ and a few irresponsible pet owners ruin it for everyone by getting dogs banned from beaches.

The poop is undoubtedly at the heart of the matter. No one wants to step in or smell dog poop on the beach ”“ or anywhere else, for that matter ”“ and leaving it behind is a surefire way to make people jump on the “no dogs” bandwagon. Dog owners must be responsible about picking up after their pooches and extra signs at the beach entrances will help remind them, and also give other beach-goers a reference point so they can speak up if they see a violation. If the city can make the investment, it’s also a good idea to have poop bags available at the beach entrances, or at least containers in which people can leave plastic bags for the purpose in case someone forgets to bring their own.

More trash cans, more signs and perhaps an educational campaign about responsible dog ownership would do us all well, and not just in Saco. In fact, dog poo is not the only unwanted waste on the beach. Dirty diapers, cigarette butts, food wrappers and other trash are often left on the beach. Some beaches have instituted volunteer programs through police departments, where people walk the beach, help clean up, and make sure people know the rules.

In the end, the only way to retain people’s freedoms and not restrict and regulate every aspect of our lives to the nth degree is for us all to adhere to social expectations of respecting one another.

Of course, dogs cannot be allowed to go dashing across other people’s blankets and sandcastles, running up to steal their sandwich or lick a child’s face clean. Any dog that is allowed unleashed on the beach by a responsible pet owner is not going to be an aggressive dog, but it’s the friendly ones that often frighten people the most because they approach strangers looking for attention and food. Having the animal under control is a must, or the leash should be used.

Even in addressing these dog-related concerns, it’s important to note that the complaint about dogs on Saco beaches was one letter. Granted, it was submitted on behalf of the condo association, which has 25 owners, but at least one of them has publicly stated that the letter does not represent her opinion. As well, it’s reportedly the first formal complaint on the matter in 20 years, according to the Parks and Recreation Department.

It’s been more common, they say, for people to see the dog-friendly beaches as an asset ”“ even a draw for tourists who want to travel with their pets. Dogs are banned from so many places nowadays, indoors and out, and have multiple restrictions as far as leashes and vaccinations and registration. They’re easily the most regulated companion animal we have. It’s rare to find a place where pet and owner can unwind and enjoy nature together ”“ even some nature walks have banned dogs due to irresponsible owners failing to pick up the poop. It’s a rare treat to be able to legally play Frisbee in the ocean with man’s best friend ”“ something that can’t be done if pet and owner are tethered together by a 6-foot lead.

That’s why the Saco beaches have become a “mecca” for dog owners, as the complainant stated. That’s how it goes when you have a unique commodity to offer visitors and locals alike ”“ people hear about it, word spreads and more come. Saco would be wise to capitalize on this, promoting itself as dog-friendly and welcoming related businesses, rather than banning dogs on the beach like everyone else, even though it’s not a widespread problem. We suggest the council take into consideration the positive and negative impacts of having a dog-friendly beach before they make any decision based on a single complaint.

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Today’s editorial was written by Managing Editor Kristen Schulze Muszynski, representing the majority opinion of the Journal Tribune Editorial Board. Questions? Comments? Contact Kristen by calling 282-1535, Ext. 322, or via email at kristenm@journaltribune.com.