Neighbourhoods are not only for people

Relaxing in Central Park - dogs are part of the scene

By Tarah Hodgkinson

One of the most common complaints I hear when working with neighbourhood residents around community safety is not what you might think. Generally, we work in neighbourhoods with some of the highest crime rates. One might assume that when asking residents of these neighbourhoods about their biggest concerns they would raise issues like gun violence, youth gangs, or drug trafficking. 

Nope. They talk to us about dog poop. 

Surprising right? Not for us. The inability of a neighbourhood to deal with the droppings of their four-legged friends highlights many of the same issues that contribute to crime and violence. These issues include a lack of territorial control and maintenance, an unwillingness to intervene, and a failure to work together to support the needs and values of the community.

A proliferation of pet feces is often indicative of other issues. 

WHY IS DOG POOP IMPORTANT?

First, there aren’t supports in these neighbourhoods for pet ownership. Supports include green space, especially dog parks, locations with extra bags in case residents need them, and ample waste baskets. These might seem like minor changes, but they impact how residents clean up after their pets. 

Second, people don’t care about their neighbourhood because they don’t feel a part of their neighbourhood. They aren’t connected to other people (what we term in 2nd Generation CPTED - socially cohesive) and so they are less likely to be concerned about leaving animal waste. When people are disconnected from their neighbours, informal controls are weaker, for example, worrying what your neighbours might think and behaving better.

Third, there is no ownership and maintenance of the spaces. People are more likely to dispose of their dog’s droppings appropriately when it is clear that a place is cared for and maintained. This is even more effective if residents know the owner of the space. 

Simple message for dog owners - show respect!

PET OWNERSHIP

Pet ownership increased dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic as many people had the additional time and space to care for a new friend. However, places for these furry friends are being reduced as green spaces are being fenced off or removed. 

Creating connected communities, with the support necessary for pet ownership will make our neighbourhoods healthier and more liveable. 

But to do that, we need to recognize that neighbourhoods aren’t just for people. And if we want to support a pet-friendly city, we need to ensure that our neighbourhoods are built for everyone – including our furry friends.