To the Editor:
While businesses that rent dogs may be well intentioned, they’re unlikely to benefit the overall welfare of pets, and may actually do harm to the individual dogs they “rent” (“For a Temporary Best-Friend Fix, Rent a Dog (Kibble Included) for a Day,” news article, March 30).
A dog is a lifetime friend and companion—not a two-hour rental. Dogs form attachments to their families and thrive on consistency. Frequent and abrupt changes in location, routine, discipline and attention are confusing and stressful. Moving them from person to person, home to home, can induce problems such as anxiety and depression.
Dog lovers who are unable to make a lifelong commitment to a pet can volunteer with animal shelters and rescue groups, and provide foster care in their home for an animal awaiting permanent adoption.
There are better and more fulfilling options for these animals and people who need a doggie fix.
Michael Markarian
Washington, March 31, 2008
The writer is the executive vice president of the Humane Society of the United States.
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