Companion animal agreements

Companion animal stewardship that is ecologically responsible and that respects the land, each other, and wild animals  is supported and allowed. However, no other animals, unless they are rescues, are allowed to be exploited in any way.

We may have a goat sanctuary at some point.

Companion animal stewardship must respect the ability of others to fully enjoy the life of the community and the land; to choose to what degree they want to interact with the companion animal  in private and community spaces; and to not be unduly affected by the noises, smells, and other burdens that might come with companion animals.

Companion animal stewardship must operate within the understanding that the health, safety and well-being of a human member of the community or guest is more important than the right of companion animals  to have access to private and common areas.

Stewards of companion animals must assume responsibility for the animal’s behavior, and take initiative to prevent incidents and to resolve problems, especially issues regarding the safety of other people and animals, including wildlife.

We recognize that these questions are complex, hence we approach the issue with tolerance for differing visions of appropriate behavior. We each agree to act in good conscience in all of our companion animal practices. Open and gracious communication and a mutual willingness to address concerns about companion animals is expected of all community members, in accordance with our existing interpersonal agreements.

We may from time to time create specific rules regarding companion animals to ensure that these protections of the land, animals, and each other’s right to peaceful enjoyment of community life are maintained. Such rules could address total numbers of animals, freedom of animals to roam, and so on.

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