DOG SHOOTING

I am grateful to the Columbia Basin Herald for the well-written story of the shooting of the black lab, Styker. If it hadn’t been for you, the general public may not have known about this tragedy. I have talked to many and let there be no mistake, the public is outraged. One grave concerned expressed is that a deputy remains on active duty after gunning down a precious pet in cold blood. Why would anyone shoot a dog, three-times no less, after the dogs were separated. Out of anger, out of spite? Or was he just reacting? The officer had already separated the dogs and there were plenty of people there to help if the dogs started scuffling again. Was deadly force really necessary? Every deputy must have the mental tenacity to refrain from acting “trigger-happy” at any time. Don’t try to shift the blame by going after the victim with a dangerous dog ordinance citation — a leash law citation, if you must. The focus should be on the deputy. I hope a fair investigation will be made.

Monica Hudson

Moses Lake