Letter to the Editor:



I love my dog. And since moving to Wisconsin last November, I’ve noticed many of you love dogs too. I see them in cars at the grocery store and pictured in this paper. I talked to a man at Klondike Days who owns 21. (Holy vet bill.)

So, I expected to find lots of dog-friendly places here like the dog parks, Bow-Wow bakeries and Soapy Dog washes I was used to in North Carolina. But, when I’ve mentioned the idea of a dog park to any locals, they look at me as if I’ve just suggested trying to snag a deer with a fishing net, which I actually think might be possible in my yard.

So, tell me, why is the idea of a dog park in the area such a foreign concept? Are all Eagle River dogs introverts? Do Three Lakes hounds prefer to have quiet weekends at home? My Bear would love to meet your Butch, chase each other in circles, and share drool. He is an extrovert big time and he loves his newfound freedom via 4.85 acres, but he is lonely.

Picture with me the dog park that was erected by the Parks and Recreation Department in my former little town. Imagine a wide-open space fenced in nicely with split rails and wire, a double gate to deter escapees, a water source with kiddie pool, and nice wooden benches for the two-legged owners. Yes, of course I realize that for five months of the

year this space would be snow covered, but I’m sure there is a way to resolve that dilemma.

Today I was at the vet, picking up tick prevention medicine. Lately those are Bear’s only close companions and they have to go. A man brought in 12 puppies for their shots and I was tempted to find a buddy for my lonely lab. Fortunately, they were all spoken for. No dog park at this house. We’ll have to find it elsewhere.

Amy Sperry

Three Lakes