Support for Vet

* I am writing in support of Irvine veterinarian Dr. Tom Elston because I feel the damage done to his career is unjustified (“Despite Exoneration, Cat Doctor Hurting From Cruelty Claim,” Jan. 14). Dr. Elston is one of the finest, gentlest, most patient veterinarians I have ever encountered. My experience with one of my present cats has convinced me that the events of last year undoubtedly were the result of misunderstanding.

Although he is a wonderful cat at home, when I carry my cat Ruggles into a veterinarian’s office, he turns instantly into “Psycho Cat”--hissing, clawing, even shrieking. We can only watch in sympathy as Dr. Elston and his assistants try to manage this animal gone berserk. If ever a veterinarian had cause to use more force than necessary, it would be in the case of my cat. And yet, Dr. Elston has never been anything but gentle in every aspect of his examination and treatment of Ruggles.

PATTY FORD

Irvine