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© St. Petersburg Times, published January 22, 2003
Re: Three roaming dogs attack, kill a pet cat, Jan. 19.
We hear many stories about dog attacks in Florida, and many stories about dead or missing cats. As the article states, "the only way to keep a cat truly safe is to keep it indoors." I have seen cats trained to walk on a leash, so I know it's humanly possible, but uncommon. Either way, the cat owner bears partial responsibility because she had the cat outside, and not in a fenced area.
That being said, the dog in question should be labeled "dangerous" now, not after another attack. Who will it be next time? My 2-year old? The dog will be released to the owner with payment of a simple fine, which is a slap on the wrist at best.
In my opinion, we should require any owner of a dog who attacks to provide proof of "bad-dog liability insurance" prior to release and proof that the owner's homeowner's carrier has been notified. For those who don't know, you can't even include this in most homeowner's policies; it is a separate policy. Most carriers consider dogs a bigger risk than floods. The insurance would force some responsibility upon those owners who show such disregard not only for public safety, but also their own pets. It would also remove some dogs from the care of owners who cannot handle the responsibility. Both are good results in my mind.
-- Steve Geiger, St. Petersburg
On Jan. 11, a friend and I took part in the Art Gallery Walk held in downtown St. Petersburg. It was our first time at this event, and while we enjoyed the art galleries, we were dismayed at the lack of security provided by the city. On two occasions, a person who appeared to be a transient shouted out at us, and on our return trip, came up behind, shouting that he wanted my jacket. Only one patrol car was observed for the entire excursion, and no security personnel were in the area. We have attended the gallery walk in Gulfport and felt much more secure.
Where we parked on Second Street, the sign indicated an allowable time of only 90 minutes with an enforcement period until midnight.
We were lucky not to have been assaulted, but are not inclined to attend another evening event in the downtown area. If the city would put more effort into providing a visible security force to protect people attending these events, and less emphasis on the severe and limiting parking restrictions, perhaps the downtown business sector would be more prosperous.
-- F. Miller, St. Petersburg
We are so lucky to have a renewed Sunken Gardens, including an eye-appealing and well laid-out parking lot. Sunken Gardens can certainly accommodate Carrabba's restaurant parking for patrons, as well as the gardens. The Outback is also a welcome sight, and all can share the parking.
I have personally been a customer at all three places of business and feel fortunate to have fine businesses nearby. No parking charges please.
-- Bette Aker, St. Petersburg