More on Respecting Our Animals

Thank you for your article on the growing rate of animal custody battles (“To Love, Honor and Belly-Scratch,” by Sanjiv Bhattacharya, Jan. 9). It reflects society’s growing compassion toward animals. Animals have been seen as property and have endured the most horrific acts of cruelty. Women and children were once seen as property. I’m glad that has changed. All animals share the same basic needs and desires--to live and be free from pain. Who gets to parent the dog is a reflection of our society’s increasing awareness that we are guardians over other living creatures, not owners.

Melinda Dorsey

Walnut Creek