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Editor:
I am writing in response to Joy Van Veen's letter ("Abide by leash laws to protect everyone," Sept. 18) about inconsiderate people who not only "walk" their dogs on the Mall without leashes, but also those who do not clean up after their dogs.
I think what has happened to Ms. Van Veen is a tragedy; she has tried to overcome her disability and become more independent, and due to the lack of consideration by not only the owners, but the UAPD as well, she has become forced to lose her independence. What's so difficult about keeping your dog on a leash? I'll admit, I have never owned a dog, but it seems like only common courtesy to keep the dog away from people as well as other dogs.
As far as cleaning up dog feces goes, you don't see people out on the Mall taking a dump! We realize that this toxic matter must be disposed of properly. As a microbiology student, I can tell you that there are nasty chemicals and microorganisms in feces that can cause sickness. That's why our bodies, as well as dogs, have to get rid of this material. Plus, I don't like to have to clean it off of my shoes when I'm taking a walk on the Mall or even on the sidewalk sometimes. If you don't want to deal with it in your backyard, don't bring it to the campus to make it everyone else's problem, too.
I would like to tell Ms. Van Veen that I am sorry about what happened to her and her dog. It is sad to see that some people care more about their pets than their fellow human beings. I wish the UAPD would take a stricter stance on these issues, because it affects many people and is an annoyance to them. To those people who take their dogs to enjoy the Mall and keep them leashed and clean up after them, I say, Bravo! To those offenders who choose to break the law by not keeping their dogs leashed or clean up after them, I say this: If you want all the benefits of owning a dog, but don't want any of the responsibilities, you're not ready to own a pet.
Mark Ballesteros
microbiology junior
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