To the editor:

I care for creatures who cannot stick up for themselves. I care a lot for animals, whether they are wild or they are our household companions. It really angers me when I hear of people mistreating the animals in their care. I was recently made aware of someone who actually hits his horses in the face. Horses are beautiful animals and do not deserve this treatment. It makes me wish that the horses could fight back.

People get pets all the time that they do not care for properly. Your animal companions need food, water and care. Put yourselves in their place. The cats and dogs are mammals, just like we are. They need the same things we do. They feel pain. I also think they have emotions such as love and loyalty. If you are going to adopt an animal companion, please give him or her the care he or she needs and wants. If you aren’t willing to take proper care of the animal, give it to someone who is willing and able to.

I worry more about them when the weather is exceptionally cold or hot.

If you witness cruelty toward an animal, please report that to the Humane Society or the ASPCA.

Kathy Schott Gates,

Lawrence