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Re: "Dog pulled from icy pond reunited with Forsyth owner," in Monday’s Times. No one is more pleased Buddy, the cocker spaniel, was rescued from an icy pond than me. However, several items in this story concern me.
Buddy had been missing since Jan. 3. His owner did not realize that it was his dog until last Wednesday. The dog is elderly and takes medication for a heart problem. He was not wearing a collar, nor did he have a microchip.
"He usually doesn’t get out of the yard, especially when it’s cold" and "How he got a mile and a half away from here I have no idea because he has never left." OK, well there is a first time for everything.
Unfortunately, many owners make the mistake of just letting the dog out in the yard, thinking they won’t stray, ever. So if the medication he takes makes him thirsty, why would he travel that far for water? How long was he left out in the yard he never leaves?
Thanks to Daphne Moore, Buddy did not drown in those icy waters. Thanks to Forsyth County firefighters, also. The owner states that he is thankful to these folks, but did he learn a lesson?
Always make sure your dog wears a collar, rabies tag, ID tag and is microchipped. Notify your local humane society or animal control immediately if your pet becomes missing. Never assume a dog will always stay in the yard; even the best of trained pets can and will stray.
And 1« miles away isn’t far, not even for an elderly pet. So many pet owners don’t get a second chance. Don’t take the risk to begin with. Long life to you Buddy!
Teresa Duncan
Flowery Branch