To the editor:

On a recent visit to Bainbridge Island I was driving north on Ferndale when two fighting dogs ran out of a side lane into the path of my oncoming car. I couldn’t stop quickly enough and I hit one of the two dogs.

I ran to nearby homes trying to locate the dog’s owner. The first two homeowners I found told me they weren’t surprised the dog got hit. They had asked the dog’s owner to keep him contained safely in his own yard, but the owner ignored them.

Amazingly, when I did finally find the dog’s owner, he angrily suggested I must have been speeding!

I urge all pet owners to act responsibly and keep your pets safe. When walking your dog, use a leash. When out with your dog, take a leash. When your dog is at home, make sure they are safe and contained in your house or in your yard.

Other people shouldn’t have to feel the anguish of hurting an animal unnecessarily, and our pets deserve responsible and considerate owners who take care of them!

SUE VICKES

Shoreline