Editor:
Re: All dogs can be unpredictable, Aug. 18 letters.
Somehow, when dogs are under fire, I can’t resist responding.
Letter-writer M. Brown, I am really sad to hear your dog was hurt, and no doubt your brother-in-law shaken. I would be outraged and upset if it happened to my dog.
My dog, a Doberman, has been charged and attacked several times at Dogwood Park. I am tired of hearing “sorry” and “he usually doesn’t do that” or, my personal favourite, “that’s the first time he’s done that.”
I dislike off-leash dog parks. Having said that, I am there almost every day with my dogs ensuring they get the exercise they need.
I have strategies when I walk in the park, and if a dog is being troublesome and the owner is not taking control, I will take control of their dog before the situation becomes dangerous for everyone.
I teach dog obedience for Surrey Parks and Recreation and see the improvement of the dogs, for those participants that put in the time, after eight weeks of training. I commend dog owners who take the time to train their dogs. For those who won’t or don’t see the value and importance of training, owning a dog might not be a wise choice.
All dogs, from Chihuahuas to Great Danes, need rules so they can live safely among us. I start training my dogs as soon as possible, usually around two or three months. Training, done properly, can minimize the “unpredictability factor” to little or no concern.
A dog can be a great companion, provide comfort and enhance your life. They are not meant to be a burdensome chore that you “deal” with every day.
Sandy VanDeKinder, Surrey
