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Track dogs need the protection offered by South Tucson initiative Racing dogs are not mistreated; they're protected, get good care

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The following letters are in response to the July 7 guest opinions "Racing dogs are not mistreated; they're protected, get good care" by Paul Pullen and "Track dogs need the protection offered by South Tucson initiative" by Janet Forrer.

I found the guest opinion by Paul Pullen very interesting. His claim that greyhounds are well cared for at the Tucson Greyhound Park seems to contradict what I have personally seen.

As an occasional volunteer for a local greyhound-rescue group, I have had the opportunity to care for dogs that have been retired from the park.

I have seen dogs with open wounds and hair worn off their thighs and stomachs from being confined in too-small cages.

I've seen dogs covered in fleas and ticks, and dogs that are afraid of people, especially men.

Perhaps both sides of the issue deal in extremes, but shouldn't this be about the dogs?

I don't see the Tucson Dog Protection Act as a political means to punish the park for years of mistreatment to animals.

I see the act as a means to improve the quality of life for a greyhound in Tucson.

I find Paul Pullen's comments on the "good care" racing greyhounds receive absolutely absurd.

I am currently caring for a 2 1/2-year-old foster greyhound who was recently retired and is awaiting adoption.

This friendly, energetic dog loves to run around my backyard, play fetch with toys and lounge around under a tree when he is finished playing.

Perhaps someone should tell him that, as Pullen says, "greyhounds do not have a high need for constant exercise" because this dog doesn't seem to know that.

I invite Pullen to come watch my foster hound play and run around happily anytime, as he enjoys a diet of organic meat and grains, as opposed to the 4-D meat he was being served while racing at Tucson Greyhound Park.

Thanks to the Star for this "face off" of commentaries from Paul Pullen of Tucson Greyhound Park and Janet Forrer.

After reading both guest opinions, one has to support the Tucson Dog Protection ballot initiative.

Two things to remember: First, it applies to all dogs. Second, without it you have animal abuse.