REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. - Currently in Rehoboth Beach, dogs are not allowed to be on the beach or boardwalk from May 1st throughout September 30th. Recently on the city's Reach Our Rehoboth website, a poll was uploaded about if dogs should be allowed on the beach or boardwalk during non-peak hours of the summer. According to the city, lots of dog owners have requested a change to the rule, so this is a "hot topic" in the area.
One dog owner who enjoys taking her dog for a walk in the off season told CoastTV she thinks a change to the rule is a great idea.
"Oh I love the idea, and I understand that if it's too busy there should be restricted times, but it would be nice," said Kristin Usaitis, who lives in Rehoboth Beach.
This topic has people divided because while some think it is a great idea, others worry mixing dogs with summer crowds could cause a lot of commotion.
Constance Bails, a frequent visitor to Rehoboth Beach explained, ""I think that when it's really crowded out here, the same way people get spooked, so might the dogs." Bails continued, "I think it would not be healthy for the dogs to be around large crowds."
If the rule is changed, one dog owner says it will be even more important for dog owners to make the right decisions.
"I think that if they're responsible dog owners, then yes that would be a good idea to let the dogs interact during the summer months also," said Connor Bouchelle, who often visits Rehoboth Beach.
According to the city, the Rehoboth Beach Animal Committee will present the issue to the commissioners at the December 4th meeting.