This week’s edition of your fine paper has a front page article about a lost dog being found and a letter to the editor from the dog’s owners.

Sadly, the story is simply another report about irresponsible dog owners, not keeping their dogs on leashes. Do they not understand they put their dog’s life in danger?

Mailbox Peak rules state dogs are allowed only on leash.

It is disappointing your article did not take the opportunity to teach all dog owners the basics of dog ownership and trail rules, especially when it comes to their dog’s safety and being on a leash.

Why should your dog be on a leash? Here’s why, courtesy of the Washington Trails Association website:

Because you care about your dog’s safety. Leashed pups are safe pups. Enough said;

To be courteous to other trail users. Others do not know if your dog is friendly. Hiking with a dog on a leash is especially important on busy trails and ones frequented by families with children;

To respect wildlife;

To protect the vegetation;

Because you’re following the rules. Dogs are required to be on leash in all parts of the Issaquah Alps trail system, on state park trails, DNR lands and on trails leading into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

It would also be a great service if you reminded all dog owners to always clean up after their dogs.

Peter Adam

Snoqualmie