Years and years ago, some neighbors bought a very expensive very beautiful Irish Setter "for their 2- and 4-year-old children" and then chained him to a doghouse and ignored him. I would go over while they were at work. They lived across the street and a few doors down. I'd give him water and treats and always felt awful that his chain was embedded in his neck and obviously causing him pain. I told my parents (I was about 10) but they didn't want to get involved.
So one night I snuck out, unsnapped that chain and hefted him over the fence. No small task let me tell you, but he most certainly was all for it. He ran and didn't look back. They never saw him again and I can only hope whoever took him in gave him his best life. I think about it a lot, but have no regrets.
DAYTON, OH
