Animal control officer annoyed her

Dog owners know that even though we keep our dogs securely confined and always on a leash, it’s possible for our pets to sneak, dig or climb their way out of our yards. I just had a horrendous experience with Agoura Animal Control and would like to share it with Acorn readers.

On Nov. 28, while my husband moved the garbage bins from one side of the gate to the other, our 4-pound Pekingese, Coco, managed to sneak her way out of the gate without being seen. A few moments later my husband received a phone call from an Officer Reva of Agoura Animal Control.

Apparently, our dog was found in front of our yard and was impounded. At first, we were very grateful that Animal Control had Coco safely off the street. We were very anxious to get her back. However, Reva explained we were not permitted to have our dog back until Monday, the next day, because it was unclear if our dog had current vaccinations or had been properly registered.

My 9-year-old daughter, who sleeps with the dog, was crying hysterically. Hoping to comfort her, I took her to the pound to see her dog. Officer Reva refused to allow my daughter to see Coco even though she was crying and begging.

Two hours later, I was still in the parking lot of animal control and was able to reach my veterinarian, who cleared Coco of any serious illnesses or criminal behavior. Our dog was finally released, much to Officer Reva’s distress.

As the officer was out of the office at the time of our dog’s release, she arranged a time when she could come to my home and write me a citation for allowing my dog to run free.

"It’s the leash law," she explained. Then with a smile and an obvious sense of gratification, she handed me a ticket.

Another canine criminal off the streets––a job well done!

Donna Lackmeyer

Agoura Hills