Answers: Farmers Market

' Should people visiting the farmers market in downtown Cedar Rapids leave their dogs at home?

FROM OUR INBOX

One of my favorite things about the market are the nice dogs I meet. I have yet to come across a dog that posed a problem. I think it's a great way to socialize and adds to the friendly feel of the event.

Brittania M.

Cedar Rapids

As a dog owner, a dog breeder, and a service dog owner and trainer I say restrict access of dogs to service dogs only. Not only does having dogs present create a possible health threat (to people and other dogs) there is also the threat of someone tripping, injuring themselves or the pet, of the hot pavement causing injury to the dogs feet, etc. There are more appropriate places for pet owners to walk and socialize their dogs. I truly believe they would much rather go for a walk on a nice shaded trail than through a crowded hot downtown shopping area.

Pam F.

Swisher

I enjoy seeing the dogs at the market as long as owners keep them hydrated and clean up any messes. Of course, it's also their responsibility to not allow their pets to annoy anyone.

Peg C.

Cedar Rapids

I'm not an avid dog lover, but I believe downtown is a public area and dogs that are well behaved around people, children and other dogs should be more than welcomed to the market!

Jordan O.

Cedar Rapids

I have a very well-behaved AKC show cocker spaniel and I would never take him to the market. No dogs belong there. It is too hot, they don't have water. They're not accustomed to strange people. I could go on and on, but I think those are three valid things to note.

Mary M.

West Branch

It would be nice to give handouts to dog owners about important tips at market. Short leashes is a good one! I love watching the breeds of dogs walk by our stand. I've only seen one problem in my 10 years at the market and it was with two dogs that didn't like each other. It would be nice to be known as a city that is dog friendly. Cedar Rapids is a dog friendly city!

Marti D.

Cedar Rapids

FROM FACEBOOK

' Jean S.: I love dogs. I have two of them, but the farmers market is not the place for them, so I leave them home.

' Paige J.: What are specific complaints against dogs? My dog loves to go to the market. She is well-behaved, loves people and makes people smile. I've never had anyone give me a wayward glare or complain. Taking your well-behaved dogs to events like the market helps them socialize and learn to stay calm in potentially chaotic situations. If the issue here is annoyance, then we should ban strollers, people stopping in the middle of the street to chat, live music, kids, food I don't like.

' Diane P.H.: The only dogs which should be allowed are service dogs. There are many small children riding in wagons or strollers who reach out to animals. It is not fair to either the child or dog should one get bitten. The streets are crowed and some of the dogs I have seen are nervous.

' Twila C.: I love my dog a lot, but the farmers market is no place to be. They should leave their dogs at home.

' Dan H.: Just because a dog is special to the owner, it's selfish to bring them to numerous people who may not enjoy dogs. If anything, allow one dog day per calendar year.

' Kim M.M.: No dogs at the market. Keep the dogs home where they are out of they way.

' Renee D.C.: Service or help dogs only and if they make a mess, pick it up.

' Sheila B.R.: Animals don't belong where food is being sold.

' Cindy C.H.: With the amount of people and the temperatures rising, it's not a good idea. Dogs can be the best behaved, but, like children, unpredictable with large crowds and heat. I don't think it's a good idea. Not only that, but, the pavement temps on the rise. Is it safe for your dog?

' Peggy P.: I have a well-behaved Jack Russell Terrier. I take her everywhere I go and people enjoy having her visit their outdoor cafes and coffee shops. She's been welcomed everywhere!