Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor,

Deep Roots Festival will be held on Saturday, Oct. 23 and it’s an event that showcases Milledgeville. I’ve attended this event throughout the years from Fest-o-Ville to Sweetwater and now as Deep Roots. I’ve attended as a member of the community and also with Animal Rescue Foundation.

My observations always seem to be animal related. I’ve seen puppies and small dogs being dragged behind people and almost stepped on, dogs getting tangled around table legs and dogs exhausted and thirsty. And, many pet owners are not picking up after their pets and they are allowing their dogs to hike their leg on beautiful crafts. I’ve seen dogs pulling and tugging on leashes to go after another dog. There are many responsible pet owners with well-behaved dogs; I’m one of them. Unfortunately, as is always the case, the few spoil it for us all.

There is also the human side of animals being in noisy, crowded festival areas. We should respect and understand there are children and adults who are afraid of dogs. Deep Roots is for everyone and everyone has the right to enjoy themselves without fear. If you ever heard a child scream at the sight of a dog, you would understand.

And, not everyone likes dogs and some people actually have a very strong dislike of dogs. Part of our responsibility as a pet owner is to protect our pets from many things: other animals and some people.

Large events can also be scary for the dogs. Dogs who are normally very calm and laid back can become fearful and protective. This can lead to a dog bite which would never have happened in a quieter situation. The Humane Society of the United States states, “The loud noises and crowds, combined with the heat, can be stressful and dangerous for pets. For your pet’s well being, leave her at home.”

Even though Deep Roots Festival is in October, the temperature can still be very warm, especially on the pavement. And, now, with fewer trees, a sunny day downtown can be very warm.

Please come out and enjoy Deep Roots Festival without your pets. Animal Rescue Foundation supports the rule that no pets are allowed at Deep Roots Festival, except for Service Animals.

Bobbie Thompson,

President, ARF

Posted by gcsunade on Oct 22 2010. Filed under Letters to the Editor, Opinion. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.