Don’t Leave Dogs

Outside Unsupervised

To the Editor:

I’m writing in response to “What Happened to Snooker?” because I feel strongly that some of the advice given is incomplete. I agree with the advice to keep an eye on your dog, be out with your dog, and don’t let your dog run loose.

I disagree with the recommendation of an electric fence to prevent a pet from entering coyote territory, because yes, the electric fence may keep your pet in your yard, but it will not keep predatory animals out of your yard, and in fact may trap your pet in your yard with predatory animals. The same goes for chained dogs.

A black bear entered my family’s yard on Memorial Day and came all the way under the porch — with us on it! — looking for picnic food. Electric fence or a chain on your dog will not stop this.

Imagine this scenario: You’re a docile person who gets sent to prison for not paying your speeding ticket. You get put out in the yard with the most violent criminals, but no one watches or keeps an eye on you. You cannot escape.

I express my condolences to Snooker’s family. I learned from their story not to let my dog out unsupervised. Period.

Dawn Shewchuk

74 Lakeview Terrace, Sandy Hook                                   June 9, 2008