Dog Days on the Courthouse Lawn a Problem

SAVANNAH, MO — Dog urine is a point of contention between some residents, county government and a new business — The Clawfoot Tub Pet Grooming Salon. In a letter dated July 11, 2013, the Andrew County Commission politely asked the salon to refrain from bringing dogs onto the courthouse yard for the purpose of relieving themselves. Officials say the Kentucky Bluegrass on the courthouse lawn is particularly susceptible and that female dogs were hardest on the grass (they urine in one spot while male dogs spread it around). Pet salon owners say they take dogs to the alley for relief while working as many as 15 dogs at a time. The successful business provides a full line of grooming services as well as day care and short term boarding for dogs. The business owners say the county’s request to find other property to let dogs go to the bathroom is reasonable. They note that the city provides no dog waste receptacles.