Re: 'Dogs suffer after neighbor uses rodent bait' [Village News, 1/21/10]

The story in the Fallbrook Village News concerning the death of Jeff Lassle’s dogs was very sad. Anyone who has lost a pet understands the pain he feels.

However, if I am reading this story correctly, the Lassle dogs were not kept in a fenced area or in a secured kennel on his property. Lowe’s department stores carry large 10’ x 10’ x 6’ kennels for about $500, and the American Fence Company in Escondido makes customized kennels.

These costs are less than the vet bill would be for a dog trespassing on someone else’s property and consuming something that could harm it. Furthermore, there are leash laws I assume Mr. Lassle ignored. The responsibility for his dog’s welfare rests with him. In addition, no property owner wants to constantly clean up some other property owners’ dog bathroom wastes.

Mr. Lassle’s neighbor has a right to protect his home from rodent infestation. It would not help to post the fact that bait stations are located on anyone’s property because dogs can’t read.

Soon it will be rattler season and dog owners should get their dogs a series of three protective rattlesnake shots and provide their dogs with rattlesnake awareness classes. Dog owners need to practice tough love and confine their pets. Many dog breeds wander and their owners must provide needed protection for these wandering breeds.

Patricia J. Walker