DOGS HAVE RIGHTS.

Free Lance, Volume XIV, Issue 723, 9 May 1914, Page 6

DOGS HAVE RIGHTS.

English Judge Speaks His Mind. |T N London a little while ago, a motor |j . car ran over a dog, and the owner of the dog sued, the motorist for■ damages. The judge gave judgment for the plaintiff, and pointed out' that dogs were entitled to as much freedom of action as human beings. Put that way, the fact seems rather startling; but it is plainly unquestionable.. Dogs are useful—useful as protectors, useful as companions. They are licensed to live and carry out their duties. So long as they do not lurk in or trespass on private property, they have as much right to come and go as is enjoyed by their owners. It is a point that the municipal authorities will do well to consider. There should be' some means provided by which, pet dogs or dogs, of small size can be carried on.the trams when their fare is paid. At present, people living in the suburbs' must either keep their dogs at home or let them chase the cars. If a small dog runs after a car, the owner of the dog is liable to a prosecution for cruelty. Possibly that cruelty lies at the door of the tramway authorities.