Man's Inhumanity to Dogs

How is this legal?

A current online video features a Chihuahua named Max being let outside into a snow-covered backyard to relieve himself. The voiceover is that of the owner telling the little guy to, "Go ahead, go pee." The dog's movements are clearly encumbered by the following articles of clothing: a knitted beanie cap, a full-body waterproof coat spanning from head to tail, and four rubber rain boots. 

The dog takes a few steps, lifts one leg and pees into a snow pile, then turns around and goes back inside. The owner can be heard saying, "Good job!" Granted I'm no animal psychologist but it was pretty obvious that the dog was uncomfortable and likely humiliated to be dressed up in what looks like a Halloween costume, and all for being outdoors for less than a minute. 

What people do to their dogs is criminal. They are hardy animals, meant for working, herding sheep, hunting and guiding. The most noble among them are first responders, searching through rubble for disaster survivors and locating lost children in the woods. Admittedly, those are rare breeds. Most dogs are pampered pooches treated like babies -- sleeping in cozy beds and dressed up in ridiculous outfits. The richer ones are often wheeled around in strollers intended for human infants and toddlers.

It's sad to see how "man's best friend" is often treated like his worst enemy.