It has always been noted that dogs wear their emotions on their tails. Now, thanks to a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), joyful, free-running pooches will be wagging their tails more often in Suffolk County. Earlier this week, the Suffolk County Legislature passed Legislator Cooper's family-friendly dog run bill by a vote of 16-2, allowing pet owners greater use of County parkland and giving County canines a place to run and exercise, free from harm.
It was widely believed that Suffolk already had a policy that allowed the construction of dog runs within County parks for the family pet to stretch its legs. So, when a group of Huntington residents petitioned the County to construct a dog run at Coindre Hall County Park in Huntington, they didn't expect any problems.
"To their surprise, they discovered that County parklands limit access only to dogs that are leashed," said Cooper. Cooper speedily came to the aid of Huntington hounds and introduced a bill in the Suffolk County Legislature.
"We're ecstatic," said Barbara Buscareno, spokesperson for the Huntington Dog Owners Group (H-DOG), regarding the passage of Cooper's bill. "This has been a hard-fought battle and Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper was a godsend in our fight. With the passing of this bill, Suffolk County finally joins municipalities across the nation, providing a place for 'Man's Best Friend'," she added.
"Dogs are social animals that offer Long Island families love, companionship and protection, unconditionally," Cooper said. "It's important to offer these special family members a safe and carefree environment to exercise and socialize. This will make all Huntington pooches happy pooches," Cooper added with a smile.
The resolution now goes to the County Executive, who has 30 days to sign this bill into law.
