Curbs on Animal Breeding

Re “Proposed Curb on Breeding of Pets Debated,” Sept. 15.

You bet it ought to be illegal for dogs and cats--especially cats--to go un-neutered, illegal because it’s immoral for pet owners to sit idly by while more unwanted companion animals are born to breed, fight and crowd neighborhoods and shelters, only to either be neglected or be killed at pounds. Parts of Los Angeles resemble third world countries now with their pitiful, discarded, starving cats and dogs.

As for breeders, sorry, but you’re perpetuating the demand as well as the supply. For years to come, all the stray, lost and rejected pets already born couldn’t possibly find enough homes. Why don’t breeders segue over to operating purebred rescue groups and make their living in some way more befitting of responsible, thoughtful contemporary society?

“It’s going to kill my hobby,” a Valley Village man is quoted as saying. Has the Rhodesian ridgeback breeder ever visited a shelter where daily they kill endless thousands of worthy animals? Get a life--literally and figuratively!

As for backyard breeders, they’re among the most guilty, running borderline operations just for the cash.

Pass that ordinance requiring neutering. My cats are all neutered and tagged, living happily and healthy indoors and in a yard with a tall fence. I’m happy and my neighbors are happy.

JOANNE HEDGE

Glendale