Letter to the Editor

Reader pleads for new law on chaining animals

Sunday, September 7, 2008

To the Editor:

Have you ever thought about the life of a dog on a chain or in a pen?

Actually, they don't have a life!

The only thing they can do all day is sit in dirt surrounded by their feces.

They usually get absolutely no exercise, no medical attention, no baths or nail trims, no shade in the summer, no straw in their dog house in the winter (sometimes, no dog house), and most important, no love!

Their water is usually frozen or tipped over by their short heavy chain.

They get the same food every day. Sometimes, in the winter, they stand, lifting one foot then another, because the ground is too cold to lie down on. Many suffer from frostbite.

Dogs hate to be alone. They bark constantly until they give up all hope of every being rescued. When in danger, they can't escape, so they become aggressive and territorial. They are dangerous, and it's not their fault!

Dogs are loyal, trusting animals. They love us like no human can, and they would try to protect us from anything. They are totally at the mercy of humans.

I say, "if you don't want a dog in the house to be part of your family, don't get a dog!"

This is your chance to help thousands of miserable helpless dogs. Please write your state legislature and tell them that there needs to be a state law that limits the time a dog can be chained or in a pen each day. The address at the State House is 200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, 46204. This law would discourage irresponsible people from getting dogs. There would be fewer strays, because responsible people get their animals spayed or neutered. The police would have this law to back them when called about neglected dogs.

Some states and more and more cities are passing laws that regulate chaining (including Indianapolis, no chaining between 11 p.m.-6 a.m.).

For more information, go online at www.unchainyourdog.org.

I have written to every senator and representative in Indiana, but my letters alone are not enough. The more letters they receive, the more likely they are to act on an idea. I would appreciate your help!

Patty Clodi,

South Bend