KAPA‘A — The county will soon conduct a survey on whether to continue to allow dogs on the designated area of the multi-use path, from Lihi Park to just south of the picnic shelter closest to Kealia Bridge, a county
KAPA‘A — The county will soon conduct a survey on whether to continue to allow dogs on the designated area of the multi-use path, from Lihi Park to just south of the picnic shelter closest to Kealia Bridge, a county press release states.
The survey will be conducted between Nov. 8 and Dec. 19.
Anyone interested in volunteering to administer the survey is invited to sign up for the project.
Registration and a briefing on the survey process will take place at the Kapa‘a Neighborhood Center on Thursday at 5:30 p.m., and Nov. 7 at 8:30 a.m.
The survey was developed by the Dog Path Task Force including representatives of the county Department of Parks and Recreation, Kaua‘i Humane Society, United Public Workers and the general community.
A bill passed last fall has allowed dogs on a non-tractable leash no longer than six feet to be on the shared-use path for an 18-month trial period, which ends on June 30, 2010.
Dog handlers who bring their dog onto the path must adhere to the following rules:
— Be in command and control of dog(s) at all times
— Have no more than two dogs under his or her control
— Have dog(s) on a leash that is no more than six feet long at all times. Retractable leashes are not allowed.
— Immediately remove his or her dog if it exhibits aggressive behavior
— Visibly carry the necessary instruments required for the removal and disposal of dog feces
— Pick up and dispose of any and all feces left by dog(s)
— Have the dog(s) wear at all times a valid dog license tag that is clearly and visibly attached to the dog’s collar
Anyone who violates the rules regarding dogs on the shared use path will be cited:
— First offense: A fine of not less than $100 and a court hearing.
— Second offense: A fine of not less than $200 and a court hearing.
— Third offense: A fine of not less than $300 and not more than $500 and a court hearing.
In addition, the County has the right to avail itself of any civil remedy appropriate under the circumstances.
Signs with the rules are also posted in five different locations along the path including the Lihi Park trailhead, an access point by the Kapa‘a Beach Park, an access point by the Kapa‘a Neighborhood Center, Kealia lookout trailhead and Kealia Beach Park, between the north end of the bridge and the first picnic pavilion.
As a convenience to dog handlers, bag dispensers provided by the Kaua‘i Humane Society for disposal of feces are located next to these signs.
For more information about dogs on the shared-use path, visit the county Web site, www.kauai.gov, or call the Department of Parks and Recreation.
