Fire hydrant removed to protect patriotism.

Is this a Monty Python joke or true patriotism?
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Fire hydrant removed to protect patriotism

HILLSBORO, Ore. (UPI) -- The decision to remove a fire hydrant painted like the American flag from an Oregon park -- for fear of dogs using it as a bathroom -- has drawn criticism.

Corinne Bloomfield of the Hillsboro Parks and Recreation department said that the patriotism-themed hydrant was initially created to honor a fallen police dog, but some thought the symbolism could be misinterpreted, the Portland Oregonian said Wednesday.

"I think the overall message was support for the dog park and support for honoring the police dog -- the fallen police dog -- but the concern (was) over the perception of a dog peeing on a hydrant painted with an American flag," the community resources manager said.

While the artist behind the work and the police officers who worked with the dog have criticized its removal, at least one area resident thinks the valiant police pooch would have approved of the move.

"That gallant dog must be turning in his grave at the thought of the flag being desecrated every time a dog pees on that hydrant!" retired U.S. Foreign Service officer Louanne Douris told the newspaper.

United Press International