DOG OWNERS: Use heads, hearts

Unleashed dogs and their inconsiderate owners on Tubbs Hill, McEuen Park and around downtown Coeur d’Alene are challenging for my blind husband and his guide dog, Nerice. Imagine walking these areas with impaired vision having to rely on a guide dog to step safely, hearing barking, growling and sensing one or more unleashed dogs running toward you. Imagine the fear you would have not knowing whether or not these dogs would be attacking you or your highly trained, valuable guide dog. Imagine the frustration you would experience when the inconsiderate owner yells at you to leave the area that you have a right to be. Think of the loss of nearly two years of training and $65,000 if your guide dog is attacked by one of these unleashed dogs and could no longer work.

This is a problem my husband lives with every day. We live downtown so he can have greater independence. Inconsiderate dog owners are limiting his right to access public areas. There are dog parks where a dog can be unleashed. Please use them. Also, please pick up after your dog. If a blind person can do it, so can a sighted one.

JEANETTE BESSENT

Coeur d’Alene