Readers React: ‘Rescue’ groups take a homeless man’s dogs

To the editor: Gerrick Miller, a homeless man in Los Angeles with a dog he cherishes, finds himself with 11 puppies, problem enough for any dog owner for sure. (“Hounding a homeless man into giving up his dogs,” Sept. 15)

But in thunders the cavalry of busybodies from the “rescue” groups. Without proper investigation, they sling phrases like “puppy mill” and “serious problems,” even though these have nothing to do with Miller’s situation.

Rescue groups make a huge contribution to animal welfare, no doubt, but so often they are hijacked by self-appointed scolds like the ones after Miller who set out to berate people they don’t like, regardless of the actual circumstances.

I know many homeless people with dogs, and every one of them takes perfectly wonderful care of their wards, whom they love unconditionally. But they haven’t the clout to combat the fact-challenged do-gooders on the march.

Bob Burket, Santa Monica

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To the editor: I’m sorry Miller has been dealt so many bad hands by life. Anyone who wants to defend his breeding his dog Sugar, though, needs to go visit a Los Angeles animal shelter and see all the dogs that will never leave because there are more dogs than homes.

I believe that most of the homeless take good care of their companion animals. But the animals need to be licensed, vaccinated and neutered.

Lisa Edmondson, Los Angeles

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To the editor: No irresponsible person, whether homeless or with a home, should have a dog.

Unfortunately, care and maintenance of a pet is an expensive endeavor, and acquiring one if you cannot afford the animal’s care is in itself an irresponsible act.

Marilyn Russell, Los Angeles

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