Editor, The Commercial:
I was horrified when I read the letter published in The Commercial on Sept. 5, written by Clarence Pinelton. He stated that Pine Bluff should get rid of all the stray dogs.
The way the letter is written makes it sound as if Mr. Pinelton advocates an open season on strays. I think a better approach would have been to call attention to the problem of strays caused by stupid and uncaring pet owners.
A puppy is cute, but it grows up and does not deserve to be tied in a yard, many times with little food or water and no weather protection. Nor, does it deserve to be turned out and made to fend for itself. And then it becomes “a stray.”
Arrest and prosecute people who mistreat animals. And do not declare any breed “violent.” Animals as well as humans are trained by their environment. We can eliminate strays by education, punishment and the fostering of a homeless dog until he can find a forever home.
Gini Holt-Aiken
White Hall