A Community That’s Gone To The Dogs
Can you imagine a place where resident dogs are embraced by a whole city?!
That is exactly what its like in the small town of Ranier, Minnesota… where the pooches run free and the town prefers it that way. You won’t find a leash in this canine haven because a leash law does not exist.
Ranier is a close-knit community of less than 200 residents and about a dozen dogs.
Dog owners let their beloved pets out in the morning and some don’t see them all day… the town pooches even have a daily routine.
According to Ranier native, Mary Shermoen, “the dogs congregate at Ranier Community Building. My uncle does maintenance for Ranier. The dogs follow him around Big Vic, the statue, sit and wait for him outside his house at lunch, then head off to the post office to see who’s there.”
And if a dog misbehaves, there is no problem finding the offending pup’s owner… photos of each resident dog are posted at the city clerk’s office.
Misbehaving mutts aren’t sent to the city’s jail, instead they are either confined to their yards or face the walk of shame by being required to stay leashed in public.
So far, only one pup had his freedom revoked. Shermoen explains. “There was a basset hound who used to go to the liquor store and get beef jerky and pizza. He got beer one night and after that, had to go on the wagon.
Ranier is my kind of town!
source: Modern Dog Magazine—Winter 2006/07 (www.moderndogmagazine.com)
