Letter: Non-service dogs in stores pose real problems

The recent editorial concerning non-service animals (dogs) in retail establishments was greatly appreciated. I found Wednesday’s letter about the 14-year-old dog on a pillow in the grocery store quite nauseating. Does this woman not realize she is breaking the law, plus she has no concerns for those of us who are allergic to animal dander? As a three-time cancer survivor with many health problems, including being sensitive to animal dander, I try to stay as healthy as possible. I find this woman’s lack of concern for the law and for others quite disrespectful.

I, and many others, use the disinfecting wipes many stores provide to wipe down the child seat and the basket. I do it because of people like her with their pets, and because little tykes often have sticky fingers and/or wet diapers/pants. Dogs tend to walk in the dirt, smell each others butt, need I go further. A short time ago, a couple was finger feeding two poodles in a child stroller from a shrimp sample plate. They were using their fingers, while the rest of us use a toothpick to take samples.

A well trained service dog/animal is almost always wearing ID and stays “at attention” to it’s job. They are a working animal and need to be with their people person.

Sally Rush

Marysville