Sympathy for a pet owner

My letter is in response to Joanne Van Buren's letter (Jan. 18) regarding the "Losing Jackie" story (Critter Corner, Nov. 23). I have never written to a newspaper before, but both of these letters struck a nerve in my heart.

First and foremost, I want to extend my utmost sympathy to the Mattson family because there is no doubt in my mind they cherished and loved their beloved pet. I moved to this area more than 40 years ago and at that time resided in Malibou Lake with my husband and infant son. Each night I would rock my son and fall asleep listening to the coyotes' lullabies, which was like music in the night. When we eventually moved to our existing home, I really missed nature's musical which played each night, free of charge.

That being said, I think that when we move from the cities to a more rural suburb surrounded by canyons, open space and mountains, we often forget we share that space with wildlife. This area includes coyotes, deer, mountain lions, bears (think back to last year), as well as many other creatures. It is well-known that many animals forage for food at dawn and dusk, so it is important to shelter and protect our pets, whether they be dogs, cats, rabbits, pigs, etc., and not leave them unattended.

We owe it to all those we hold most dear to keep them safe and out of harm's way.
Louise Ingram
Agoura Hills