Re: Dog ownership rules restrictive (Letters, June 8)
I am shocked and saddened to read more on the subject of punishing dog owners. More and more our society is becoming a police state. More and more, those in power tell us we’ll be safer when we have more policing.
First, we police the already downtrodden members of society, many of whom find solace and companionship with their dogs.
They can’t leave them at home as home is the street.
So now we have a new “vice squad” aimed at folks who leave their people-loving canine friends, for a few moments, outside a store.
I love to visit with the dogs. They add some pleasure to the humdrum business of shopping.
Policing must be a profitable business. Imagine if we were to use these funds to support people in housing with the comfort of a non-judgmental friend, who raptly listens to the events of the day?
There are people who prefer the comfort of their furry friends, who keep them fit with daily walks and provide love always.
I can think of many occasions where dogs have literally saved peoples lives.
As in the human kingdom, there are losers and no doubt there are a few undesirable dogs.
Does that mean we need to punish them all?
Joanna Wilkinson
Victoria
