Pooches on Pacific: Thursday marks a first in 35 years

SANTA CRUZ - Thursday marked the first day in 35 years dogs were legally allowed downtown.

But the beginning of a three-month trial period came and went with little fanfare. Several dog owners admitted to bringing their canine companions downtown long before Thursday's expiration of 30-day waiting period since the City Council lifted the ban in July.

Pat Galea strode Pacific Avenue with 4 1/2-year-old sibling Pomeranians Zsa Zsa and Osito on Thursday. Although she lives near Frederick Street Park, where dogs are allowed off-leash, she enjoys walking her babies downtown with a leash and will carry waste collection bags to hand other dog owners.

"If everyone acts responsibly, then there is no reason this shouldn't become permanent," she said.

Police spokesman Zach Friend said officers verbally warned a few people about panhandling with a dog and tying a dog up to a post while shopping - two things outlawed by the new rules. No citations were issued. MORE>>