Dogs on beaches a nuisance we could do without

Shortly after a response from another reader appeared, in which the writer referred to herself as a lifelong responsible dog owner. In her letter it was suggested the tide comes up and cleans it anyway. I think this must be a conclusion many dog walkers using our island beaches have decided, given the amount of disgusting dog mess, poo bags (empty and full) and chewed-up fetch-balls witnessed on beaches over many recent years.

The respondent clearly had also not properly read my letter, when suggesting, and I quote: ‘as you feel so strongly about dogs on beaches, why don’t you just use the ones where dogs are not allowed.’ I should like to respond to that outrageous statement by affirming: every human being on this island, both local and visitor alike, should absolutely be able to choose whichever beach we desire to visit, without having to experience the negative effects of dog behaviours, their urinations, faecal discharges, or residues thereof.

This next point I draw from my previous letter. Not only is it the current situation that we have disproportionate provision for dogs on this island, but dog walkers in any case are ignoring the banned areas on a daily basis. Which beach is it suggested, can be trusted not to be contaminated with canine urine and excrement? Which beach is it that is guaranteed free from dogs barking and the unwanted interference by these animals? Why has it become acceptable for dogs to chase after innocent sea birds?

Millions of dogs, in countries around the world, including the UK, never visit a beach, lead perfectly happy, healthy lives. Dogs will wag their tail, run and socialize with other dogs in any open space. There is no need therefore for our precious coastal regions and beach visitors to be affected by canine-related problems, at any time of the year. I conclude as previously, the use of island beaches as dog toileting areas is a vile, intrusive practice, and needs to be permanently stopped.

NAME AND ADDRESS WITHHELD.