To the editor:

The other day I was out driving. What took me by surprise was the number of animals that are kept on chains or some kind of restraint against moving in their confined circle. If we tried to invent the cruelest punishment for dogs, we probably couldn't come up with anything worse than solitary confinement on a chain.

Dogs are pack animals who crave companionship. Scratches behind the ears, games of fetch or walks around the block mean the world to them. Curling up at your feet while you watch TV is their idea of heaven.

Many dogs left to fend for themselves at the end of a chain fall prey to attack by other animals and cruel people. Many others are injured, hanged or choke as a result of getting entangled or caught in their tether. A chained dog can only watch as life goes by.

As a supporter of the Humane Society, I urge you to protect and serve the animals that we have as pets. Give them a life they deserve.

If you have a backyard dog, please bring it inside. Dogs don't want much -- just you.

CYNDI PAYNE

Cape Girardeau