May 12, 2008

SECAUCUS, N.J. – A New York family’s outing to the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, Conn., was allegedly ruined by their one-year-old child stepping in dog feces.

The mother, Kelly DeBrocky of Mahopac, N.Y., filed a claim against the city for $100 to replace the toddler’s $54 shoes, as well as for the price of parking and admission to the aquarium on April 5.

The claim is the latest in poop issues that cities across the nation are facing. While City attorney M. Jeffry Spahr said the Norwalk’s official response is denying the claim, he also said “poop happens.”

But it’s exactly the stink that’s been plaguing lawmakers: what to do after “it happens.”

A bill is currently before New York state legislators that would increase fines for not picking up after pets by 150%. It is the first time in 20 years the fine would increase from $100 to $250.

Previously reported by Pet Pulse, city governments in Alaska and Wyoming are debating the issue by banning canines to enter public sporting fields, to reduce the risk of children contracting diseases.

In Anchorage, the issue came after numerous complaints of children stepping and falling in feces during sporting events. While the city already carries a $150 fine for offenders, it has launched a “Poop Patrol,” comprised of volunteers to prevent “poop abandonment.”

The city hopes the patrol will nip the issue in the bud before the Anchorage assembly meets next spring.

Cheyenne City, Wyo., council members considered a similar proposal that altogether banned canines from community fields. However, members determined education was key to stopping irresponsible pet owners from leaving behind dog messes.

City council members hope a misdemeanor charge will discourage wanton poop offenders.

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The Associated Press and New York Daily News contributed to this article.

To read the Pet Pulse previous article on this issue, search “Poop Controversy Plagues Two States.”