Most cities and towns in New York allow dogs in parks, normally with the requirement that the owner leash and pick up after their dog. Vestal has been the exception, only allowing dogs in Jones Park and on the Rail Trail. Many dog owners, though, have requested change. Since, statistically, over 66 percent of households in Vestal have dogs, the Town Board is listening and is considering easing the present restrictions. Vestal Dog Control Officer Andrea Husband suggested establishing a pilot program allowing dogs in Middendorf Park, and the Town Board agreed. The trial period began on December 5, 2025. Residents were reminded that all dogs must be leashed and picked up after. Andrea worked closely with our police personnel, and all were ready to respond to complaints or conduct enforcement, if needed. Led by Jeremiah Barnard, our Parks Supervisor, the parks personnel monitored the physical condition of the park, looking for evidence of violations or issues.
We are very happy to announce that the pilot program has been very successful. While our personnel were ready to deal with any issues that arose, there were none. Quite the opposite occurred. The residents encouraged each other to comply with the regulations. Small signs popped up, strategically placed around the park, cheerily reminding people to leash and pick up after their dog. There have not been any complaints, any inappropriate dog waste, and no enforcement was required.
Since the trial program has been so successful, dogs will now be allowed in Middendorf Park permanently. Permanent signs will soon be posted reminding owners that they must leash and pick up after their dog, and that enforcement will occur, if needed. While dog owners will always be required to follow the rules, everyone (people and dogs alike) will be able to enjoy Middendorf Park!
Thank you to all our residents and town personnel who made this pilot program so successful!