I don’t have a dog in NYC. I would love one, but it would be unfair to the dog, as I am not on a set schedule. So, still wanting a dog, I settled for second best and volunteered to walk my neighbors’ dog while they are away — a 14-1/2-year-old golden retriever. This is the first time I have ever dog sat for a neighbor. My neighbor’s instruction was to give him as many treats as he wanted. My neighbor also added I didn’t have to worry about walking him because he will walk me! And, walk we did. We went out for our first walk and the old guy took off like a puppy – I had to run to keep up with him! I found out why fast. We barely made it past the Ritz Carlton (20 feet from our door) when he lifted his leg, and we quickly crossed the street towards the park. We finally got across the street and barely made it into the park when he did more than lift his leg — if you catch my drift. I did my duty (pun intended) and picked up after my new friend and found the first rubbish bin ASAP. I thought “good dog,” and we continued on our way; I was relieved the worst was over. Wrong. Another 20 feet went by and he did his business again, but this time I was defenseless with no bag to pick up with. Of course, like a bad episode, 15 kids walk up behind me, about 18-19, with what looked like a TV crew. As I tell the dog it is time to go, one of the punks in aviators (honestly, it wasn’t even sunny) yells out “That’s disgusting”! I turned and agreed and got out — as fast as I could and, I’m sure, red in the face. Luckily, I didn’t get a ticket, which was a likely possibility if a cop had been nearby. But, in a world trying to be green, I am sure the crime I left behind will be put to better use than whatever trash that crew of teens left behind when they were done doing their business! C’est la vie, I suppose, and lesson learned. I will bring multiple doggy bags with me next time…. -Alex Young, vice president and associate publisher