Talk Back: Humane Mission

Readers commended 11-year-old Haley Ham of Tennessee who, after losing her two dogs to antifreeze poisoning, spearheaded the introduction of legislation to help prevent such a tragedy. Among the comments we received:

Way to go Haley! Taking action through your pain took a lot of determination but because you persevered countless humans and animals will be able to live out their lives. Your story is an inspiration to us all! —Pamela Bertsch

I’m moved by this girl’s courage to take the action necessary to protect other people’s pets from suffering the same fate. And congratulations to her for winning such a distinction from the HSUS. —Lisa J

Good for you, Haley! You have learned a great lesson early in life—that we cannot undo tragedy, but we can take the energy of our grief and use it to give our tragedy meaning, and make the world better for everyone. I’m so sorry for your loss, but proud of you for seeing the simple solution and taking action! —Yodel’s Mom

Dear Haley: I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful friends, Sam and Jessie. Much love and respect to you for your terrific work in helping change this poison that is so available in many homes. I have heard of other animals passing by this. God bless you dear child. Animals are the "eyes of God" and are given to us as gifts. It is our responsibility to see they are respected and taken care of. —Linda Elliott

Why does it take legislation to force the makers of antifreeze to add a bittering agent? They should just do it to help save animals and humans. They are going to pass the cost onto us anyway. Seems like a no-brainer to me. —candacd