Dear Editor: This letter was originally intended for dog owners but, upon reflection… it’s for any interested party. Many may find this ridiculous, as do I to a certain extent but, no stupid questions… right? So… when a dog owner is asked to control their dog… why is the answer, in any situation, “He or she is friendly??’’
Not only does it not provide a solution but, in all instances in which I have had to listen to someone drone on about their ‘‘friendly’’ dog … I don’t care. I didn’t ask if I could pet it, or play with it, or anything else. I simply asked you to control your dog, to please keep your dog away from mine, etc. Yes, keep it away from my dog that’s on the leash. I would like yours that is loose to be brought under control by you. I’m glad it’s friendly, and I bet it’s really friendly “with you.” But, your dog, being your friend, really doesn’t mean he or she is really going to get along with any or everybody else or their pets.
Lastly, to pre-empt the expected responses such as, “It’s my dog and I won’t control it if I don’t choose to,” or “Just because you follow the rules and have your dog on a leash doesn’t mean I have to” and on and on… I understand. We live in a free country and from what I’ve been told it’s getting free’er all the time.
However, is it too much to ask that I (or anyone) not be subjected to the attentions of your ‘‘friendly’’ dog when out and about in public spaces – or my own yard?
If you got this far, thanks for your concern or interest and I look forward to all the positive feedback!
Joseph MacDonald, Sitka
