European and American approaches to public policy differ, with the European approach more likely to have a generous social safety net, tougher regulations on businesses, and stronger protections for animals. Via a comparative analysis of several policies, this book asks whether this conventional wisdom holds in the area of canine welfare.
The book delves into the contentious issue of leash laws in public spaces, highlighting how these disputes have escalated to significant political debates akin to those surrounding abortion and gun rights. Through detailed case studies from San Francisco and Avon, Connecticut, it explores the evolving dynamics of community life, social norms, and human-animal relationships. By examining these emotionally charged conflicts, the book offers insights into Americans' complex attitudes toward pets and the ongoing struggle to balance individual freedoms with community welfare.