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Man ‘nervous’ about pepper spray

by Jay Hamburger OF THE RECORD STAFF

A man told the Park City Council Thursday night he is "nervous" about the recent confrontations between a Park City man and loose dogs, saying he is unsure how he would react if his dog was hit with pepper spray like two others were.

Dave McFawn, who lives in Old Town, told the elected officials he is worried that his "emotions might get the better of me" in that situation. He questioned whether leash laws can be changed.

The City Councilors indicated they wanted to discuss the laws at an upcoming meeting. They did not, however, commit to changes in regulations. City Councilman Jim Hier cautioned that the disputes cannot be solved with a single government action.

City Councilwoman Candy Erickson said during the brief discussion she has received e-mails from people worried about loose dogs. She did not provide details. Liza Simpson, another City Councilor, said the two people whose dogs were hit by pepper spray are women. They were alone when the incidents occurred, Simpson added.

In an interview after approaching the City Council, McFawn said he is worried about escalating tension between dog owners and others, and he is surprised by the two cases involving pepper spray.

"Passions can run high. People get emotional," McFawn, who owns a Bernese mountain dog, said.

He said he keeps the dog on a leash on sidewalks and paved trails.

McFawn said he wants wider access for dogs off leashes on trails and open spaces. Perhaps, he said, dogs could be allowed to be off leashes at certain times on designated trails.

A Prospector resident since late March has shot two dogs with pepper spray. Bob Berube has said he became worried when the dogs approached him.

Park City has long been seen as a dog-friendly community, and the incidents have stirred emotions. Some people are dismayed that the dogs were sprayed, but others have supported Berube’s actions.

City Hall is preparing to open a dog park at Quinn’s Junction. It is expected to be completed midsummer.


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