Greenwich Police announced that Greenwich Point Park, aka Tod’s Point, will reopen to dog owners on December 1.
This dog-friendly provision runs through March 31 every year. “While we encourage people to get out with their dogs and enjoy Greenwich Point, we remind dog owners that many other people use Greenwich Point who are less dog-friendly,” police said. “It’s our collective responsibility to ensure the safety and comfort of all park users. Every year, our Animal Control Section investigates numerous dog bites that could have been easily avoided by the owner’s control of their dog.” Dogs should be on a secure leash. They can be off-leash below the high tide mark, but owners must still have control of their dogs at all times, police said. Further, dog owners must be sensitive to other people, dogs, and wildlife. Dog owners are responsible for their dogs’ conduct. A frequent complaint police receive is about dogs jumping on or at other people walking on Greenwich Point’s narrow walking trails.
Georgie enjoys a trip to the beach. Feb 15, 2023 Photo: Leslie Yager
Pet owners should maintain control of their dogs and not allow them to jump on people, especially children, baby carriages, and those recovering from injury. It’s required by law that all dogs have a valid dog license and rabies vaccination attached to their collar or harness. (Dog licenses are available through the Town Clerk’s office.) Police remind dog owners they must clean up after their dogs. Dog waste bags are available at the gatehouse and other locations throughout the park. Waste must be bagged and placed in a garbage receptacle. Greenwich animal control officers will be present at Greenwich Point. “Their duty is simple: to educate pet owners on dog laws,” police said. “They will enforce the law when necessary. Dog-biting incidents are serious, and fines can be higher.” Common dog-related fines are the following:
- Town Ordinance off-leash in the park (T/O 7-25) $53 per dog
- Failure to Rabies vaccinate (State law 22-339b) $136
- Failure to license (State law 22-349) $75
- Roaming Dog statute (22-364a) $92
- Used for dogs, not under the control of their owner
- Nuisance dog (State law 22-363) $75
Under Connecticut statute, certified service animals can accompany their owners into a town park. This does not include support animals