Letters (2)

Pet Talk
I want to thank Michael D. Roberts, who showed me I am not the only nutcase when it comes to dishing out obscene amounts of money to save a pet (“Ruff Cuts,” December 2009). In my case it’s even worse because, dog-lover that I am, I have an indoor cat who insists he’s outdoor material and proves it by escaping often and getting into fights he never wins. Each vet bill is around $500. I’m too embarrassed to say how many times I’ve paid up. Roberts makes a good point when he observes we are too dependent on our pets. Most of us no longer live near extended or even nuclear family. Community is now the workplace, which changes often. We are busy, but we are often lonely. So we turn to pets to enhance or replace family and community. This is definitely good for the pets, but I’m not sure it’s the best answer for lonely humans. We need our pets and our strong communities back. But in the meantime, I’ve got to go look for my cat. I haven’t seen him around yet today.

Inara Mantenieks
Medina

I loved Mike Roberts’ article. Rest assured, you and your wife aren’t crazy — well, any crazier than the rest of us who have dogs. Between the vet’s bills, groomers, sitters, walkers, the occasional doggie day care, food, treats and toys, I also spend a fortune on my two furry children. It’s simply the price we have to pay for all the joy we get from our dogs.

Dawn Hanson
Cleveland Heights

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