Animal Cruelty and Opossum Bites

I am sure The Times will receive many letters protesting the publication of the photograph of the grossly impaled opossum (“Opossum Killings Test Limits of Cruelty Cases,” July 29). I applaud you for printing it, as it is a heinous reminder of the unconscionable acts humans commit and attempt to justify. Perhaps the viewing of that photograph will bring about changes in the law permitting the killing of “injurious” animals “in any manner.” There should be no law ever that allows physical or emotional abuse of any animal, human or otherwise. Legislators, please take note. Let’s see legislative action on this.

Wendy Averill

Culver City

*

One reader (letters, July 31) contended that opossums don’t bite humans. Maybe so, but one took a 2-inch chunk out of my 18-pound cat’s side. I wouldn’t like to test the theory.

Mary Ann Scott

Los Angeles