During the Fourth of July week, I watched a spirited and well-run 5K road race and fireworks display at the Winthrop public beach. Why, I wonder, do people take their dogs to such events?

A beautiful golden retriever was tethered to a sign post for a period before, during and after the race, probably 30 to 40 minutes. It was a very hot day, and she had no water. She didn’t bother anybody that I saw and was very well mannered.

Why would anybody subject their pet to this environment?

The next night at the fireworks, I saw people who had brought their dogs on a leash. The animals were cowering with each “boom.” Why bring them to such an event?

Terry Brooks

Winthrop