Reading your article on the front page of today's paper about veterinarians who "fear'' for their lives from thugs who fight their dogs has me seeing red! Dog fighting has become an epidemic in our society and we, as a "humane'' society, need to take a stand. Regardless of who calls the Police, whether it is a neighbour, family member or vet, they all risk the consequences.

Dr. Maureen Ware-Cieters is burying her head in the sand and I hope there are other veterinary professionals who will stand up for animals' rights, regardless of the possible backlash.

Of course, I can only presume she is possibly concerned that these owners will not bring their injured animals in to be treated, and suffering would increase.

A fair argument, but a cop out Dr. Ware-Cieters! This is no different from a situation of child abuse a G.P. might suspect in a patient. There are now laws in place in Bermuda for mandatory reporting by a professional (doctor, teacher, counsellor, etc) if they suspect, not prove a situation of child abuse.

Perhaps we should be asking our Environment Minister, Arthur Hodgson, about tabling a law such as this to protect our animals. We take away children from abusive parents or caregivers to protect them.

These dogs do not have a choice -- or a voice for that matter -- to protect them from this horrendous practice. We as a community would be outraged if a child was brought to a doctor to be treated for `mysterious' bumps and breaks continuously, and the doctor turned a blind eye because he/she was afraid of repercussions.

How would we feel if that child subsequently died and discovered her doctor knew or suspected she was suffering but did nothing? Now there is a law (finally!) that requires the professional to report a suspected abuse (confidentially) or face prosecution himself or herself.

Reporting a crime or suspicion of a crime is not vigilante law, Dr.

Ware-Cieters, it is an act of a responsible citizen. How can the Police bring a case to court if they do not know or suspect there is a crime taking place? I have difficulty believing that someone who went into the profession of taking care of animals would take such a stance. Yes, I agree there should be some practices put in place in regards to prosecution and the veterinary role as a reporter of medical records. But if you, as an animal care professional don't take a stand, who will? We will never rid our society of this heinous inhumane practice if we don't speak out about it. I ask all animal lovers out there, if you suspect cruelty to animals, whether it is dog fighting, abuse or neglect, call the S.P.C.A.

You can make an anonymous statement and let their warden investigate. If you are proved wrong, you were just looking out for the welfare of animals. If you are right, you just might save the life of a creature that cannot ask for help.

I hope Dr. Ware-Cieters reconsiders her position, as she is clearly not afraid of making her opinions known (how ironic!) These animals need her in their corner and sometimes risking repercussions is necessary to make a change.

Fiona Murdoch Smith's Parish