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Letter: Not everyone wants to meet your Fido — keep the leash on

When I was 8 years old, I was attacked by a German shepherd, receiving bites to my leg and back requiring 31 stitches. Did the dog owner claim, “She just wants to get to know you!?” I’m not sure; I was too busy getting attacked. Was the dog restrained? Certainly not, and that’s why the owner was unable to control her dog, and that’s why I was attacked. Now, in spite of that experience, I love dogs! But what I don’t love is the irresponsibility of dog owners and the assumption that everyone loves your dog as much as you do.

Many laws are ignored because we are blinded by the cuteness of our fury friends. But keep in mind, these laws are in place to protect the rights of others. In my town, it is illegal for a dog to be unrestrained off its owner’s property. That means going to a park and throwing your dog a ball is illegal unless you’re at a dog park. Do these infractions happen? Every day! So please, calling all dog owners, allow the people around you the choice whether or not they want to meet your loveable dog. Use a leash.

Janelle Evelyn Brown, Midvale