Dear Editor:
Question: How would you like to spend several hours outside in the humid and hot Indiana summer wearing a fur coat and no shoes on the hot pavement? Probably not?
We are writing to bring attention to a common occurrence seen around Hamilton County in the warm summer months which we find perplexing and bothersome. It is becoming more prevalent for dog owners to drag their dogs around to public events, concerts, ballgames, farmers markets, etc. regardless of the heat and discomfort of their pets. Not to mention that there may be people attending those events who are fearful or uncomfortable around dogs due to unfortunate experiences in the past.
We have been dog owners our entire lives and currently have two dogs who are very content to stay at home where it is cool and comfortable with fresh water and their dog toys. They are not interested in being in a crowd, or becoming hot and anxious while we owners “show them off” as some kind of trophy or prize.
We have observed people dragging their dogs out to concerts at Federal Hill Commons where the music is obviously disturbing the dogs’ sensitive ears.
We have observed dogs being taken to the Babe Ruth ballpark in Forest Park where it is clearly posted that “no dogs are allowed.” Maybe those dog owners cannot read? Not sure what the problem is there.
Dogs are social creatures in most cases. If you wish for your dog to have contact with other dogs, there are dog parks and doggie daycare facilities. Maybe your dog does enjoy attention from other people – invite friends over to your home where your dog is comfortable and not exposed to extreme weather conditions.
In the meantime, please reconsider whether your dog is looking forward to a concert or watching a ballgame … they probably are not. And of course never leave your dog in a warm car, keep them safe and secure away from crowds, loud noise and heat. As we approach the July Fourth festivities, please be especially careful with your dogs’ exposure to any fireworks. They depend on us for so much, let’s not let them down!
Bruce and Sharon McMahon
Noblesville