Sir, - As an animal lover, I regularly walk my friend's dogs along Sandymount beach in the evenings. However, what used to be a very enjoyable job is now a nightmare, as I try to fight off numerous unleashed dogs from my charges. Despite the fact that there are signs at all of the entrances to the beach reminding people of the law regarding the control of dogs, the owners are still allowing their dogs to run free.
Yes, it would be ideal if we could allow dogs which have been cooped up in small gardens all day have some freedom when we exercise them in the evening. But the risk of harm, not only to other valuable dogs, but to children and others, is too great.
So to all dog owners, walking their pets in public places, please control them. It's the law. - Yours, etc., Leesa McCarthy,
Lansdowne Village, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.