Be a good dog owner

In the Rockford Register Star in the Opinions column comes this opinion of what we all are saying. We just don't understand why it doesn't make sence to a lot of people.

Be a good dog owner

Americans have embraced the joys of dog ownership for centuries, from George Washington and his American foxhounds to George W. Bush and his Scottish terriers.

Today, there are approximately 73 million dogs in the U.S. and their roles in society have shifted from hunter and working dog to family companion.

When we hear of unfortunate incidents involving dogs such as bites it’s often because of carelessness by dog owners and a failure to take responsibility for the animal they chose to own.
There are two ends of every leash. Responsible dog ownership begins with the man, not the best friend.
Canine companionship is not only a right but a privilege to be respected and nurtured. In return, dog owners need to respect reasonable, enforceable, nondiscriminatory legislation governing the ownership of dogs, such as local leash laws, curbing policies and licensing regulations.
The saying “one bad apple can spoil the whole bunch” rings especially true in terms of dog ownership.
Breed-specific laws do not work. Mandatory microchipping, spaying and neutering, and education and stricter law enforcement are key.
Learn what it takes to be a responsible dog owner. Your best friend is counting on you.
— Cathy Anderson, Rockford