Earlier this week, Mayor Bloomberg headed announced the city's new online dog licensing system, which serves to make it easier for pet owners to protect their pups while they comply with the law. Currently only 20% of the city's estimated 500,000 dogs are currently licensed (you can use the new system here!). Meanwhile, Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe declared to the humans on hand: "You and your dog are welcome in New York City parks, so come enjoy the outdoors." But last week The Brooklyn Paper noted many Brooklynites have been banned from public spaces and parks if their dogs are in tow. An aside: The paper also has a photo of Mayor Mike announcing the new program and looking like not much of a dog person!