MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT, San Diego -- According to the California Court of Appeal, whatever may be said about the affection which mankind has for a faithful companion, modern city conditions no longer permit dogs to run at large. "Leash laws" generally require dogs to be on a leash and under control whenever they are off their owners' property, unless a specific area is designated for unleashed dogs.
In city areas like San Diego, where concrete grows in city parks, it is difficult to let dogs be dogs. Luckily, amongst the hustle and bustle there are places where owners can take their pets and let them play off-leash. These rules also apply to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego’s famous mascot, Lance Cpl. Belleau Wood.
While she is allowed to go virtually anywhere on base, as long as she is on a leash, performing the same routine over and over can wear on even a dog’s morale.
On weekends, Belleau and her handler load up and head to the dog beach to enjoy some personal time. This gives Belleau a chance to be a dog and get accustomed to other people and dogs. Her duties make it necessary to be around people and animals.
Tucked in the corner of Ocean Beach, Calif., is a beach designated just for man’s best friend and his owner. On sunny days the beach is crowded with people and their pets playing in the sand and surf.
“I love the dog beach,” said Aly Smith, a San Diego resident. “I bring my Siberian Husky, Dakota, here all the time. It’s neat because the surrounding town is very dog friendly as well. They have places where your dog can sit and eat with you outside,” added Smith.
Ocean Beach is a place where dogs have their own menus, pet stores and groomers on almost every corner, when normally taking a dog to a beach or restaurant could turn some heads and get owners unpleasant stares or maybe even a quick and stern request to leave. But, it’s in a dog’s nature to be with others of their kind.
“Dogs are pack animals,” said Sgt. Andrew Johnson, kennel master, Headquarters and Service Battalion. “They want to run, chase and play with other dogs. Dog beaches and parks give them the perfect opportunity.”
According to Johnson, if a pet is kept away from those pack instincts it could become aggressive to other dogs and even people.
“Owners should take their dogs everywhere,” said Johnson. “Any time you bring a dog into a new place it helps them to be around other people and animals, and it gets them accustomed to it.”
The dog beach and dog park, both located within 5 miles of the depot, can be a great start for depot Marines to venture out their own dogs.
“Dog parks are amazing,” said Johnson. “I take my own dog all the time and I think that everyone who has a dog should go. It’s a good way to spend time with man’s best friend, plus it’s free. It gets both of you out of the house, helps your pet in so many ways and you don’t have to pay for it, how cool is that,” added Johnson.