To the editor:
In response to Robert Maddock's letter (Forum, Nov. 22), it should be noted that the Humane Society of Utah (HSU) has not been affiliated with any other humane organization since 1972.HSU has its own statements of policy and acts independently. While People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is a dedicated and compassionate humane group, they did not target Salt Lake City and County for the introduction of a mandatory spay/
neuter ordinance.
However, in regard to a possible ordinance, breeders would be well advised to organize and form a type of breeder certification system that would set them apart and define them as "responsible breeders," as opposed to ignorant backyard breeders.
Like leash, littering and traffic laws, a mandatory spay/neuter ordinance would be enforced when someone is caught and would give recourse to individuals like me who are tired of unwanted litters being deposited on their doorsteps.
An ordinance would in part define and educate what is minimally expected of a pet owner. At present, many pet owners either do not care or have not gotten the message - there are too many dogs and cats.
Annually, 8 million to 18 million unwanted pets are killed nationally, 42,000 locally. During a time of staggering euthanasia rates, even one more animal on the scene is a burden, purebred or otherwise.
It is time to look at the big picture, and responsible breeders should be especially sensitive to the needs and concerns of all cats and dogs, not just the fancy ones with a big price tag.
Mae Hendricks
Salt Lake City