The Sunday Age
18/7/10

IF WE want to see a reduction in discarded dogs and cats, society needs to stop viewing them as ''possessions''. Eleven years ago, the American group, In Defence of Animals, started a campaign to have the term ''owner'' replaced by ''guardian'', which more accurately describes the responsibility we have for the wellbeing and treatment of the animals in our care.

Scores of American cities now use the term ''guardian'' on tags, public park signs, veterinary and adoption forms, and animal companion-related publications.

Residents are also asked to adopt and spay/neuter their animals and report abuse to the humane society or police. Why can't we do this here?

JENNY MOXHAM, Monbulk