End tethering of dogs

Dear Editor:

There is no excuse for dragging an animal behind a vehicle, as a Limestone County man is accused of doing. We hope that if he is convicted, this man is given a strong sentence including jail time, counseling and a ban on contact with animals.

This cruel event might have never happened if Limestone County had a ban on tethering dogs. The dog that was dragged apparently had broken free from a chain.

Not only are chained dogs at risk of getting loose and encountering cruel people, but many are also deprived of adequate food, clean water and veterinary care. They are also at risk of being left outdoors through all weather extremes, being attacked by insects, other animals or cruel passersby. Tethered animals are also deprived of exercise, companionship and everything that makes their lives worth living.

Unattended dog tethering is also a public safety risk. Many dogs who are kept continuously chained become overly territorial and aggressive because of their extreme isolation and deprivation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that chained dogs are nearly three times as likely to attack as those not tethered. Children, the elderly, and other vulnerable individuals are often their victims.

In light of this incident, we urge Limestone County to join the more than 200 jurisdictions nationwide that have restricted or banned dog tethering. Readers can visit www.PETA.org to learn how to end dog chaining in their community.

Sincerely,

Ashley Rhodes,

Community Outreach Liaison

Cruelty Investigations Department

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)