Working at a Humane Society we see and hear a lot of things; which most would find shocking and disturbing. For the sake of the animals we care for, we stay focused and do the best we can, despite what society doles out to the animals of our community.

Your June 28 article portraying the horrific deaths of “Air” Buddy and Thunder has truly left all of us at the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society stunned. Aside from its disturbingly graphic nature, I am most saddened as I think about how this entire scenario could have been avoided.

First, dogs should be appropriately supervised when outside or securely confined in a kennel or on a run. Thus, not allowing Buddy and Thunder the opportunity to get into trouble with the calves.

Second, the dogs could have been quarantined at their home, or a relative’s home, under the supervision of the animal control officer at virtually no expense. Following the mandatory 10-day quarantine, there would be no reason to test the dogs for rabies.

Lastly and most importantly, there is absolutely no reason whatsoever why any dog should have to be killed in the outright inhumane manner in which Buddy and Thunder were. The Greater Androscoggin Humane Society, or I’m sure any other Humane Society for that matter, would have humanely euthanized Buddy and Thunder at no cost.

Despite our shock and sadness, we will continue to remember Buddy and Thunder as they were – in the air.

Steven Dostie, shelter director

Greater Androscoggin Humane Society, Auburn