Editor:

Living in a small town such as Picayune definitely has its upside. For instance, everybody knows everybody else and people are quick to lend a hand to a fellow resident. Eventually one begins to take these niceties for granted, and is often reminded, too quickly, that as hard as it may to accept, one cannot completely trust every person they encounter in their small town.

Animal cruelty is a problem mostly everywhere in the world, and Picayune is no exception. Not only is the problem persistent in our area, but the problem continues to grow. It is extremely disheartening to come to the realization that we, as neighbors, would much rather avoid the simple task of voicing our problems with one another, and instead take extreme measures, such as harming or even killing another’s beloved pet.

It is important to realize that to a pet owner their pet is not just a pet, rather a member of the family. When a pet is so suddenly and cruelly taken away the pet owner is left to deal with a devastating, painful experience, which will never fully disappear.

While neighbors’ pets may be a nuisance, it is important to consider the actions taken to remedy the situation. One may take a hurtful route and decide to take away an innocent animal, or simply take the time and speak to one’s neighbor. Words are a very powerful tool, and the effect of words is irreversible, whereas the consequences of violence may never be forgotten.

Daniella DiRienzo