Letter: Pet ownership is a large responsibility

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

As an active-duty military spouse who has lived in five different states in the past five years, I agree that Lawrence is not the most pet-friendly city. However, based on the evidence presented, it is clear that dog breed is not the real issue in this case.

Many places do not allow pets, or impose weight limits or breed restrictions. My Siberian Husky is considered an aggressive breed in some states, and some places around the country have not rented to me because their insurance would not cover them if they did. Insurance companies make coverage determinations based on risk analysis, which is based on the number of violent altercations involving each breed.

Dog ownership is a significant responsibility that extends beyond loving and caring for one’s animal to encompass concern for other citizens, some of whom are afraid of dogs. This is one of the reasons that there are leash laws. The city maintains an off-leash dog park available to its citizens for the enjoyment of their pets, as long as they are under voice control and wear rabies tags.

Moreover, for the discrimination claim to be reasonable, one would have to prove that a disproportionate number of tickets are issued to pit-bull owners. This evidence was not presented. All pet owners, regardless of breed, must obey the law.

I have found that the easiest way to get your pet accepted when you move is to bring your dog, vet records, obedience training certificates and letters of recommendation for your pet from your previous landlord. This has eased the way for my dogs and me through many of our moves.

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