Articles in the Whidbey News-Times about dogs and cats are always well read. Reactions are usually impassioned, whether it’s about kitties being abandoned, a pooch being rescued from a cliff or dogs running loose in a state park.

People care about their pets. And that’s why the nonprofit organization Whidbey Animals’ Improvement Foundation, or WAIF, was able to build one of the nicest animal shelters in the region.

Residents donated large amounts of money and supporters worked for years to raise funds for the facility, which is located near Coupeville.

It’s also why WAIF is sometimes a target for critics. People have strong opinions when it comes to animals, sometimes based on misunderstandings, about how the shelter cares for animals. Such was the case in a recent News-Times story.

People have ideas about how to enrich the lives of shelter animals. Sharing and discussing those ideas publicly is to be encouraged.

One local woman, for example, asked why WAIF volunteers can’t take a dog or two on a field trip to a nearby dog park. WAIF responded that there are liability issues at play.

Consider for a moment if a shelter dog being walked by a volunteer breaks loose and attacks a smaller dog, or frightens a person who just happens to be nearby.

Regardless, open dialogue is important. WAIF should consider holding regular forums during which officials can promote WAIF and listen to ideas and address concerns.

Also, when it comes to animal shelters, the strongest opinions usually involve the issue of euthanasia. WAIF only euthanizes about 6 percent of dogs and cats that arrive at the shelter. That’s a very low number compared to other shelters. Animals are never euthanized for space, but only when they are unadoptable, whether it be because of sickness, injury or behavior.

There’s no question that some of the dogs that end up at WAIF are dangerous.

WAIF officials say it’s irresponsible to adopt out a dangerous dog and that euthanasia is sometimes the most compassionate answer.

Regardless, some people feel an aggressive dog can be changed, trained or taken in by the right person. .

Again, liability issues play a role in these instances.

In an ideal world, dogs would be treated well their entire lives, aggressive behavior would be dealt with appropriately in puppyhood and there would be no need for animal shelters.

But in this world, one of the best things animal lovers can do is to volunteer at a shelter and show they care — within the parameters established by the organization.