To the Editor:
I'm writing in response to an ad in the Northland Smart Shopper on Aug. 22 from a parent looking for a puppy for his/her 2-year-old child's therapy.
Puppies tend to be jumpy and bitey and young children tend to play roughly and are not aware of an animal's physical comfort needs or feelings.
Young children need to be closely supervised with pets, for the safety of the child and the pet. Animals are easily hurt by children and many children are bitten or scratched by family pets because of the child's rough handling or abuse treatment of the pet. Children are often not taught about humane and gentle treatment of animals.
Puppies, and any animals, are not toys. They are sensitive, living creatures that are easily hurt, both emotionally and physically.
ADVERTISEMENT
The best therapy for a young child is a caring, attentive human.
Kim Knudtson, Cloquet
