By Lea Kahn, Staff Writer
Fido is going to be walking on a shorter leash.
Township Council adopted an ordinance Tuesday night that shortens the length of the dog’s leash from 10 feet to six feet, after a public hearing that brought out only one resident.
The restriction does not apply to hunting dogs that are lawfully used during hunting seasons while under the control of the dog owner or custodian, according to the ordinance. It also does not apply to dogs that are being exercised or trained to hunt.
Municipal Manager Richard Krawczun said the proposal to shorten the dog’s leash grew out of a concern raised by a resident who, while walking in his own development, was "aggressively approached" by a dog on a long leash.
Reducing the length of the leash to six feet provides the owner with more control over the dog. It creates a safer environment for people and their pets that may be out enjoying the park or the neighborhood, Mr. Krawczun said.
But Bob Howe, who lives on Cliveden Court in The Manors at Lawrenceville condominium development, questioned the need for the ordinance. He said he "hoped" that Township Council would reconsider the ordinance.
"I don’t think it’s a good law. I haven’t seen a vicious dog (at The Manors)," Mr. Howe told Township Council. He said he has lived in Lawrence for 19 years.
Mayor Cathleen Lewis said the township health officer and the Health Advisory Committee discussed the issue and recommended the shorter leash length, especially in "tight quarters" such as the Lawrence Square Village or The Manors developments.
When Mr. Howe asked who would enforce the ordinance, Mayor Lewis replied that "we will not have the police measuring the (length of) leash."
At the time of the ordinance’s introduction last month, Councilman Michael Powers said it is an "awareness issue."
Dog owners must use a leash when they take their pets for a walk. Pet stores sell leashes that have a long length. Some leashes are adjustable and may be shortened.

