Dear Dr. Forsythe:
I write this hoping you will put the word out to all those dog owners of both large and small dogs here in Sonoma who believe that because their dog is friendly he/she doesn’t need a leash. I walk many times a day in town with my small dog, and we invariably run into other dog owners who don’t follow the rules regarding leashes. My dog doesn’t like it when dogs run up to play, sniff and carouse. This doesn’t mean my dog isn’t friendly, but she gets scared and protective. But the problem does not happen when the other dog is on a leash.
Why do people think they are above the law?
Thanks, Helene
Dear Helene:
Thanks for a great question. People should always keep their pet on a leash, whether in town or out. I agree that it is very inconsiderate for people to let their pets romp up to your pet uninvited and get too close too fast in an uncontrolled manner. In addition to you and your pet’s safety, I would also be concerned for the other pet as well, because your little girl could get scared enough to snap if provoked and this would be sad for all parties concerned. I urge all the dog owners of Sonoma to heed our advice and follow the laws of courtesy and common sense and leash up their pooches before heading outdoors. And if you come across any more leash violators, pull out a copy of this column, hand it over and ask them to read it on the spot. That should solve the problem, or at least get a good dialogue started. And please don’t forget to call me with an update soon, OK? Thanks for a great question. You go, girl!
Dr. F
Dear Dr. Forsythe:
My neighbor’s cat has feline AIDS, but he doesn’t keep the cat inside and I am afraid the cat will get out and bite someone. Do I need to worry about this? I hope this is not a dumb question.
Worried cat lover
Dear Worried:
No, this is not a dumb question. Your neighbor should keep his cat inside, because FIV is transmissible from cat to cat via bites and scratches. His cat is more prone to infections if he is left outside, exposed to wild animals and to the elements. However, people cannot catch FIV from being bitten from a cat with FIV, so you don’t need to worry about that. Sorting out these cat viruses can be as puzzling as presidential primaries, so I appreciate your question and interest in helping get it straight!
Dr. F
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