|
|
|
|
The dog was one of two who reportedly got out of their yard and wandered into the street, where they were accidentally hit by State Trooper Cole Dunaway as he drove through the neighborhood.
Dunaway stopped and wrote a note to the dogs’ owners and placed it on their door, telling them his name and how they could get in contact with him.
We believe Trooper Dunaway acted responsibly in this case, and actually went beyond what he was legally obligated to do, which was nothing at all.
Loose dogs remain a problem in Victoria County, and while we don’t pretend to know all the circumstances that led to these two dogs being in the street, and we hesitate to pass judgment on anyone, we can say with certainty that it is the responsibility of pet owners, not passing motorists, to keep track of their animals and keep them out of harm’s way.
The law — and common sense — tell us that a driver has the right to expect a roadway ahead that is clear of pets, just as it should be clear of children and other pedestrians.
We can feel deep sympathy for an injured animal — especially one with a face as sweet as we saw on the front page — because it is not their fault that they follow ancient instincts to explore the world around them. Given the chance, they will spring for the run-loose freedom of the road.
And that is when tragedy can strike.
But to simply blame the driver because his vehicle outweighs the animals is wrong.
If we own pets, their protection is in our hands, not in those of a passing stranger.
As we said, the law and common sense can see it no other way.
This editorial reflects the views of the Victoria Advocate’s editorial board.