Dogs on the Path
Prior to the Department of Parks and Recreation assuming management of the Kapaa to Kealia section of Ke Ala Hele Makalae on February 15, 2008, path users frequently brought their dogs onto the path. County ordinances in effect at that time, however, prohibited bringing any animal into the County parks without a permit, thus making dog walking on the path an offense.
The County Council addressed that issue with Bills 2265. 2266, and 2267, passed by the council in late August, 2008.
Key Points in the Bills:
- The amended laws take effect Dec. 1, 2008
- Dogs may be on the Kapaa to Kealia section of Ke Ala Hele Makalae (the East Side's shared-use coastal path) only between Lihi Boat Ramp and Southernmost rest pavilion at Kealia Beach
- Dogs may be on the paved portion of the path plus six feet on either side; in comfort, picnic pavilions, and rest stations; and led directly from trail head parking facilities to the path
- Handler must be in control of dog at all times
- No minimum age requirement for dog handler
- Two dogs per handler max
- Must have poop bag in evidence. (NOTE: The Kauai Humane Society will work with the Department of Parks & Recreation to donate and install several dispensers for biodegradable "poop bags.")
- Dog owner must remove and dispose of dog’s feces
- Dog must be licensed
- Maximum leash length 6 ft. (No extendable leashes allowed.)
- Must leave path area if dog gets aggressive
- 18-month trial period
- A Dept. of Parks and Recreation and stakeholders committee will develop measurable objectives to determine success/failure of trial period
- A fenced off-leash dog park will be created at the Wailua Homesteads Park
The Kauai Humane Society is seeking volunteers to monitor the path and gently coach dog owners on good dog etiquette! The intent is to show the community that pet owners can be responsible to build a more dog friendly future for Kauai. Brief 30 minute volunteer trainings will be held on the last Saturday of every month, 12:30pm in the classroom at the Kauai Humane Society.
More Info: Ms. Sue Hansen, 822-7721, dogs.on.the.path at hotmail.com
or Sheri Knapp, Volunteer Coordinator, Kauai Humane Society, 632-0610x102 or sheri at kauaihumane.org
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