Hecksher Park in Huntington Tests Leashed Dog Policy

LongIsland.com

Pilot program will run 90 days and if successful will be extended.

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Dog owners looking for a place to take their furry friends outside have a new option. Picturesque Heckscher Park in Huntington is running a 90 day pilot program to allow leashed dogs. The program started on January 1st and will run until March 31st.

 

According to a press release from the Town of Huntington, rules, as noted in both new signage installed at the park and information card handouts, require dog owners to:

 

  • Keep dogs on leash (maximum 6 feet) and under control. No retractable leashes.
  • Pick up and properly dispose of dog waste.
  • Yield to all other park goers on the paths by stepping off the path.
  • Keep dogs out of the playground, picnic areas, tennis courts and the ball field, when in use.
  • Keep dogs quiet during events at the Harry Chapin Rainbow Stage.
  • Avoid wildlife for their safety and their dog’s.
  • Keep dogs out of the plantings and the pond.
  • Have dogs licensed and vaccinated.
  • Have no more than two dogs per handler.
  • Respect other park goers so the park is a good experience for everyone.

 

Park-goers with safety concerns are advised to call the Town’s 24-hour Public Safety number, (631) 351-3234.

 

If the the pilot program is deemed successful, it will be extended for another three months to allow for an assessment of its success during the different seasonal uses of the park.

 

The Town of Huntington encourages feedback on the pilot program to be sent to the Department of Parks and Recreation at (631) 351-3089 and Councilwoman Joan Cergol’s office at (631) 351-3173.