Sunday, September 7, 2008

Imagine how Sen. Barack Obama's family could improve the fates of homeless dogs if, instead of purchasing their promised pet from a breeder or a pet store, they adopted a mutt from a shelter. For the non-allergenic breed they want [The Reliable Source, Aug. 27 and July 4], they could easily check the Web sites of shelters and rescue groups.

Aren't presidential dog choices influential? Remember how springer spaniels abounded when Millie lived in George H.W. Bush's White House? If the Obamas started a movement, maybe puppy mills like the one raided in Parkersburg ["Delivered Into Loving Arms," Metro, Aug. 29] would fade into oblivion.

BARBARA K. JOHNSON

Annapolis