Educate pet owners

I no longer live in Cherokee county. However while I was a resident, one of my biggest complaints was the lack of enforcement of the county leash law. Cherokee County has a leash law which states that all animals should be confined to their properties or leashed when walked. My husband and I are responsible owners. If our canine companions are outside of our home to get some exercise or sunshine, they are secured inside of our fenced-in lawn. When we go on our daily walks, they are properly harnessed and leashed. Unfortunately, Cherokee County is a large county with over worked and under paid Animal Control officers.

The burden of irresponsible pet owners is far too great for the agency to handle. It is up to the residents of the county to try to educate the irresponsible pet owners and work with the county to help further bring to attention the problems of the current leash law. Don't blame the dogs. Blame the irresponsibility of some pet owners.

- L. Dawn Wig, Asheville, NC