License owners of pets in Ballajura – Letter to Editor

THE news report on the number of cats killed in Ballajura unfortunately did not surprise me.

I am often reporting wandering dogs to the council, whether it is because the owners do not care about their dog, whether it will be run over or whether they just like to see if their dog will have a go at another dog, cat or person I do not know.

In regards to cats killed, I know of one woman who about 12 months ago lost one of her cats due to it being run over deliberately by one of her neighbours.

The trouble is that if the person who is letting their dogs do these things is caught, the dog is put down, the owner is given a slap on the wrist and told do not be a naughty human and that is it.

The dog should be rehomed, the owner should suffer a minimum $50,000 fine and at least five years in jail.

If they can’t pay the fine then they should serve at least 10 years in jail.

Having a dog, cat or any other pet is a privilege not a right.

It is about time the owners were licensed as well as the pet and the yard inspected for security, cleanliness, shade and water, which is always accessible for the pet.

Moreover, no pet should be tied up 24 hours a day throughout the week.

And do not say it does not happen because I know that it does.

MARGARET ANNE RYAN,

Ballajura.