Thank you for this wonderful story [USDA Inspecton Dog, FCN Oct. 6].  It’s commendable that the U.S. Department of Agriculture adopts dogs from rescue centers. I wish the public in general would better realize the value of shelter animals as well.

Of course the real shame is that animals end up in shelters in the first place. Responsible pet ownership would greatly reduce the number of unwanted pets. I realize some pets are given up because the owner dies, becomes disabled, or can no longer afford to keep the animal through no fault of their own. 

However, too many pets are seen as disposable or something easily discarded. Kudos to the USDA for seeing their worth and using them to help protect us.

Barbara Taylor

Cumming