I recently moved to Portland and was thrilled to find Willard Beach, a wonderful place for my 10-month-old son and my dog, Sydney. I was surprised when I learned of the bitter conflict regarding dogs, especially when dogs have access for only four hours each day.

My wife and I are physicians, and nothing is more important than the health and safety of our son. He has been around Sydney his whole life and they have shared hugs, kisses, toys and even food. Out of concern for him, I have done extensive research concerning zoonotic illness, in other words, can people get diseases from dogs? Although possible, the risk is minimal and virtually nonexistent if dog owners clean up after their pets. And they certainly do. Just this morning, I witnessed dog owners clearing trash from Willard Beach in addition to cleaning up after their pets.

Call me old-fashioned, but I believe that access to Willard Beach should be unrestricted and available for everyone, young and old, dog lover and non-dog owners. I was saddened to hear about the referendum this November that may ban dogs. If my 10-month-old son pees in the water while swimming, would you also ban children? The voters should realize dogs are family and if you ban dogs, you are also banning families. It is misguided if a small, but vocal, minority feels that they have more right to the beach than families just because they are wealthy enough to live on the beachfront.

I hope voters will think carefully and vote ‘No’ on the referendum this November so we can all continue to share the waterfront.

Rahul Banerjee, MD

Falmouth