Editor: This is in response to the July 7 article regarding Rozlyn Kromhoff-Francis’s dog being denied admission to Langley’s Canada Day celebration. Anyone who knows me would tell you that I am a dog lover through and through, and a responsible dog owner.
I leave my dog at home when I attend public events — always and without exception. This is my rationale for that personal policy:
r Not everyone is as enamoured with my pet as I am. Some people are afraid of dogs, some people are allergic to them and some people simply don’t like them.
r My dog poops and pees in public. Yes, I carry a supply of baggies and always clean up when he defecates but he still urinates, sometimes in the least convenient places. I think it is less than considerate to have dogs peeing all around public events.
r I consider the comfort of my dog. Crowds, noise, perhaps heat, the temptation to eat litter/food on the ground — these are just a few of the factors that convince me that he’ll be much happier in the comfort and safety of his own home.
While I do agree with the suggestion that there should have been advance notice that the Canada Day celebration was a no-dog event, I don’t believe the event organizers should provide dog sitting or doggie daycare. I would not expect the provision of on-site care for my children, and certainly not for my dog. There are simply venues, events and places where dogs should not be allowed.
Dog owners and dog lovers, it really is OK to leave your beloved four-legged companion at home. I assure you, he will appreciate the peace and quiet far more than being hauled around a hot, crowded event for a few hours. And dare I say, you’ll have just as much fun (or more) without your pet in tow. For the sake of your dog and in consideration of others, please leave your dogs at home.
L. Peters,
Langley