Connecticut Town Considers New Dog Leash Law

DARIEN, CT (WCBS 880) - Darien may impose new restrictions on dog owners.

LISTEN: WCBS 880 Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau reports

Dog owners say a town leash law will put an end to socializing and exercising, so critical for dogs.

"If you talk to dog behaviorists, or look at any of the research, you'll see dogs need to run, they need to exercise," one Darien dog owner told WCBS 880 Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau.

But the legislative arm of town government is ready to pass the ordinance.

The reason is simple enough, says Karen Armor, who heads the Representative Town Meeting.

"Everyone knows that there are people who believe they have perfect control over their dogs by their voices, and we also know that it's not usually the case," says Armor.

Dog owners hope for a compromise - early morning hours, perhaps, for dog freedom.

But Armor says any agreement like that would have to be worked out with the Darien Parks and Recreation Commission.