Editor, The Times:
At first glance, prior to reading the caption of the photo of Bob Wenger and his 7-year-old dog Ryder, I was amused to see Ryder being carried by his owner like a piece of luggage [“Doggy Ryder rides show’s bunny slope,” NWSunday, Nov. 22]. But my amusement turned to pity for poor Ryder when I read Ryder was just a pawn and part of his owner’s idea of entertainment for a display at the convention center.
I had to read it twice before I realized it was for SkiFever, a ski and snowboard show.
Still, photos like this only encourage pet owners to believe animals are here for the owner’s entertainment. Ryder is a 7-year-old, which means he is entering his senior years. To be restricted and attached to doggy skis and forced down a grade of any length is cruel and dangerous for the elderly pooch.
Would Wenger think it was entertaining if we took an elderly relative of his, strapped skis on this unsuspecting person, brought him or her to the top of a grade and pushed?