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Leave dogs alone

To me, a dog is nothing more than a four-legged child, usually obedient but occasionally misbehaving.

As a dog owner I find it difficult to understand that not everyone loves dogs as I do. To me, a dog is nothing more than a four-legged child, usually obedient but occasionally misbehaving.

A few minutes observing your average dog will show that for the most part they are fun-loving and trustworthy creatures. Highly social, intelligent and good natured, they are enjoyed by the vast majority of people.

Some people believe your dog should be perfect, always at your side, obeying every command never making a noise, well just like people they’re not perfect and have many personalities.

Certainly if a dog has vicious tendencies it should be and probably will be leashed. When a socialized dog has a confrontation with another dog it is usually short lived with no consequences. For the most part a dog acting aggressively towards people is reserved for their own turf.

So I ask you what is so terrible about a dog running around having fun? Did he shake himself off near you or run across your blanket? Maybe he stole your snack that you left out, or maybe the owner never picked up after him. Relax, you will survive.

Now maybe it’s just me but I can’t help but think that in this democratic society of ours that a very few noisy people are ruling the country. I’m pretty sure these same people whine and complain about everything else that doesn’t fit into their perfect world. It seems that if I complain loud enough something will be done regardless of what most of the population thinks at least at the local level.

We live in one of the nicest areas in Canada, Let’s take a deep breath, observe the beauty around us and live and let live.

George OlmsteadParksville