A loved dog is a peaceful dog

Thanks for your article on the Elgin dog problems. The attack on man's best friend has happened again in Elgin.

Like Jack Hannah, I've never met an animal I didn't like, so I'm forced to respond to your article.

It upsets and pains me to read that there are many people who get dogs they don't love or welcome as family members since, like people, dogs respond to their owner and you won't hear of a dog who is loved and cared for attacking or biting anyone.

It's the poor, innocent dogs who are owned by selfish, callous individuals who mistreat, neglect, keep them caged or tied so, if they get loose, they attach and bite. They are shot by police or caged until the rabies fear passes, and then put to death.

Thanks to Mayor Ed Schock for reporting the attack on him and his dogs, for adding big fines for the owners and thanks to John Prigge for suggesting, if owners can't pay heavy fines, they can pay some and do community service for the difference.

Anyone training dogs to fight should be reported and punished to the full extent of the law.

The time has come when we need to fight for our dogs who are our best friends and can't stand up for their rights. They need us to be sure they are safe and not mistreated.

Phyllis J. Krueger

Elgin