All dog owners need to follow leash laws

Can someone please explain to me why some people think they and their dogs are exempt from the leash laws in this city?

After a long, cold winter, our pets are excited to get outside in the nice weather. There are laws in place for a reason and I think if you are a responsible pet owner, you should follow the rules as they apply.

I have a small dog (dachshund), which has few defenses against a bigger dog. We were walking and approaching a corner when two dogs came running toward us. While concentrating on getting my dog up into my arms, both of the other dogs were by then jumping.

Animal Control will respond to calls but the person filing the complaint has to have some sort of proof, such as a picture showing the dog(s) are not under proper restraint. Otherwise it will be the owner's word against the person filing the complaint.

Unless I have two extra hands, that is not possible for me because I'm usually picking my dog up out of harm's way.

It just seems to me that those of us who comply with the rules often come out on the short end of the stick.

Paula Hernandez

Cedar Rapids