The Political Insider

If you have ever taken your pet to Arlington National Cemetary to walk around, you’re in for a big surprise.

Visitors won’t be able to do that anymore, and for many that could be an issue.

I’ve been to the cemetery one time, and never saw animals racing all over the place. Nor did I see them use the bathroom inappropriately. Somehow I just can’t believe people who are going to Arlington National Cemetery to pay respects are letting their dogs run crazy. I just can’t see it that it’s that big of an issue. I guess I’d have to see the evidence.

I know where the officials might wonder and have a problem with it, but I’ve never heard of a major issue so go figure.

From Army Times:

Pets are no longer allowed at Arlington National Cemetery, the Army has announced.

The new policy went into effect Wednesday. Also no longer allowed are bicyclists without family passes.

“The primary mission of Arlington National Cemetery is to lay to rest those who have served our nation with dignity and honor,” according to a statement from cemetery officials. “And while we know that pet owners intend no disrespect to our veterans and military families, non-service related animals on cemetery grounds can and have impacted the decorum of both funeral services and ceremonies at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.”

Approved service animals and military working dogs are exempt from the policy, officials said.

As for the new policy regarding bicyclists, the move comes amid “legitimate safety concerns” as cyclists and pedestrians mix on cemetery grounds, according to a post on the cemetery’s official website. It also addresses what the service considers unintentional infringement on grieving family members.

Arlington National Cemetery, which is run by the Army, hosts 4 million visitors a year. It can hold up to 30 funeral services a day.

It’s supposed to be a place of reverence. Actually, the animals probably do better than the humans who have been wading in the various reflection pools, or making noise inappropriately at the wrong times, like these dopes laughing at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Maybe some kids should be banned. I have seen kids running around playing hide and seek with the headstones.

I guess what we have here is a case of one incident, even though I can’t confirm it. As we know, all it takes is one sighting!

What do you think about this rule for the cemetery? Do you think it’s too extreme or do you think it’s needed? Share this article on your Twitter/Facebook Page and let us know your thoughts below in the comment section.