Horrified by killing of dog

THE EDITOR: I read with horror and revulsion the article about the recent killing of a dog in Roxborough. As a foreign resident I return time and again to Tobago as I love the island and its people. I have on numerous occasions introduced many other foreign visitors to Tobago, and they have all developed the same love of the island.

However, hearing of this killing, and as I understand it two more within the same week, I am becoming more and more reluctant to encourage tourists to visit the island. This is not the story that tourists want to hear.

I understand the penalties for animal cruelty have recently been increased. I do hope for the sake of future tourism that these crimes are dealt with under the new law and that the maximum penalties are applied. The message that cruelty to animals reflects badly on the country has to be reinforced.

As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”

LK GALLIVAN

via e-mail