Letter: Pet ownership takes responsibility

I love dogs and I understand the desire to have a dog in your life, but when does that overshadow my desire to have good night’s sleep?

I live in north Clark County and I cannot count the nights that I have had to close up my home to keep the noise of barking dogs out, whether that noise comes from across the fence or across the valley.

I love the smell of a night rain, the sound of the frogs announcing the arrival of spring, even the occasional hootee hoot from the local owls.

But, what I don’t have the choice to listen to is others’ barking dogs all night.

If you don’t like your dog, get rid of it.

If you don’t want your dog in the garage so it does not bother the neighbors (or keeps you awake), get rid of it.

If you ignore your dog, get rid of it. There are plenty of people looking for a great dog and all your barking dog needs is a great home.

If your dog barks all night, you are not providing it with a great home, so make the decision to give it what it deserves and give your neighbors what they deserve — a night of sleep.

Jean Beck

Battle Ground