Dear Editor,
I work near Rona (Alderbridge and Elmbridge) and am fortunate enough to bring my dog to work. At lunch I like to get out and walk her around the block.
I am new to working in this area and I must say that downtown Richmond is filthy. In addition to all the litter, rabbit droppings, bird waste, and goose dung, there are cigarette butts absolutely everywhere. I’ve concluded that it must be the “new thing” to walk away from your dog’s business (I’m running out of synonyms). From the office where I work, I have witnessed many people either not pick up after their dog, or use a bag, only to throw it in a nearby bush (there are flies everywhere — a real puzzle).
The dog park is a nice feature of the area... if you like giving your dog a bath after. If, by some miracle, you or your pet has avoided stepping in feces walking to the park, it is inevitable that both of you will step in it within the fenced-off area. I am becoming exceedingly frustrated with the apparent lack of pride in this neighbourhood.
More garbage cans in the area would definitely help as would more education and greater bylaw enforcement.
With new apartment buildings going up on every corner, it will only get worse. Or should I say dirtier.
Jay Howard
Richmond
