The head of the New Canaan Police Department’s Animal Control section is trying something new to encourage dog owners to observe leash laws: positive reinforcement.
New Canaan Animal Control Officer Sean Godejohn. Credit: Michael Dinan
Based on a different NCPD program that saw the agency reward seatbelt-wearing motorists with gift cards, Animal Control Officer Sean Godejohn’s “Do the Right Thing” program soft-launched last month.
“New Canaan Animal Control is now handing out gift cards and coupons to people keeping their dogs on leashes, thanks to generous donations from local businesses,” Godejohn told NewCanaanite.com. “Participating establishments include Pet Pantry, New Canaan Veterinarian Hospital, Club Sandwich and Spa Dogs. This effort not only supports our local economy and strengthens our community relations but also aims to ensure dogs remain leashed in parks.”
Godejohn said he regularly receives reports of off-leash dogs at New Canaan’s parks.
At first, some of those receiving the rewards “were surprised” by Godejohn’s approach, “mistaking the interaction as a negative one,” he said.
“However, once they realized they were being thanked for keeping their dog on a leash, the responses were overwhelmingly positive, often leaving them with a smile,” he said. “My goal is to make every interaction with the community safe and positive, and I believe this incentive will encourage leash compliance.”
Godejohn said he plans to keep the campaign active for as long as it’s successful, “and I am grateful for the support from local businesses.”
“Together, we can keep our parks safe and enjoyable for everyone,” he said.
If people want their dogs to play off-leash—they should sign-up for Spencer’s Run Dog Park in Waveny. The form can be found on the town website. The more dogs the merrier!