Irresponsible pet ownership is to blame
To the Editor:
My heart goes out to DJ and Tom Ruscik. We have owned all kinds of pets in many different states, but we’ve never encountered so many unlicensed and unattended dogs as in this area. We don’t blame the poor dogs, we blame their uncaring owners.
Our neighborhood had a problem for some time with a man who intentionally allowed his dogs to run free. He had a fenced-in area, but chose to harass the neighbors by letting them roam. Approaching him in a neighborly way was like talking to a brick wall. Luckily, the dogs appeared non-aggressive and never attacked anyone or any of our pets, that we know of. Of course, our gardens and garbage cans were fair game, not to mention the stress of not knowing when or if these dogs, American bull/pit bull mixes, would prove vicious.
Finally, enough of us banded together and with Animal Control and police help, the problem was solved. Unfortunately, it took almost four years of complaints, photos and court appearances! If you find yourself in a similar circumstance, make sure Animal Control explains what they will do and what you are required to do. A simple phone call is not enough.
If someone is being irresponsible, you have to be persistent, but you can take pride in knowing that perhaps you help avert a similar, horrible outcome like the Rusciks suffered.
People, please take charge of your animals before a less civilized solution might be resorted to by an injured party.
Forever pet lovers,
G. and I. Howe
Bokeelia