Charlestown Pet Group
Meeting Minutes 01/23/2024

David Elder brought the meeting to order at 11:00. 26 members were in attendance. Minutes from the November Meeting were approved with correction: Building Rep for FH, MT, NC is CARL Miller. A moment of silence was held to honor pet owners and pets who we lost in the past year.

Old Business
• It is imperative that all pet owners read and follow the rules as stated in the Resident’s Handbook Appendix E. or we could lose the privilege of having a pet. The book clearly says, “Pets must be on a leash or in a cage at all times when outside your apartment and should never be allowed to run free.” Please remember that some residents have a fear of dogs and be considerate.
• Items are collected for donation to shelters. If you have any items for donation, bring them to the meeting or
Contact Elsie Kemp or Otto Greul. Contact information can be found in the Resident Directory, available online in MyErickson. If you need any items, let them know.

New Business
• Ginger Branville is the new Building Rep for Arborside and Courtyard Crossing. Otto has updated the list. If anyone would like the list, contact Otto.
• There are concerns with the ice melt used on the sidewalks and roads. It seems to be irritating pet’s paws. David will contact Grounds to find out what is used and see if something more “pet friendly” could be used. It was suggested to check your pet’s paws if it seems to be in distress as the pellets can get lodged between toes.
• There seems to be an increase in owners not picking up after dogs. Specifically mentioned were the dog run at Herbert’s Run and the area around the St Charles Graveyard. If pet owners are not responsible, it is possible that all of us could lose the right to have our pets. If you see someone violating the rules as stated in Appendix E of the Resident Handbook, please speak to Resident Services. If there is any imminent danger, contact Security. These offices are much better equipped to deal with these problems.
• If someone has physical difficulty picking up after a pet, there is a long-handled scooper available. It can be found on sites like Amazon, Petco, Walmart.
• If a pet has an accident in a building, call Housekeeping to have it cleaned.
• Cat Clinic information – Dates: March 22, May 31, June 28, August 23, October 4, December 13. Clinics are held In the Cross Creek Arts Room from 8 – 11 am. Please call Dr Nesbitt directly (410-869-0800) for an appointment.
• Otto will contact the Cat Clinic to clarify their policy about charging for annual exams.
• The group has 240 residents with 108 cats, 80 dogs, 2 birds, 1 rabbit and 1 lizard.
• The meeting adjourned at 11:52.

• NEXT MEETING – February 27. Meetings are always on the 4th Tuesday at 11AM in Brookside Classroom 2. (No meeting in July, August and December.).