Dogs, swimmers don’t always go together (1)

Franco Farrugia was mistaken in his reply to Marianne Pace’s complaint about dogs and children swimming together (August 25). It is not the dog that Ms Pace is against but man’s irresponsible behaviour. Nothing was said against dogs per se by Ms Pace.

Neither is it a valid argument to say that dogs should be left running free at the seaside because there are other things that are equally wrong, such as broken bottles, etc.

Nor should one expect everybody to be comfortable in the presence of dogs. It is not the person’s fault if he or she is afraid of dogs or other animals, for whatever reason, and it does it mean that one is against them either.

Just because Mr Farrugia doesn’t mind swimming with dogs, as I don’t, it does not mean that the activity is enjoyed by all. Dogs should be taken for a swim in out-of-the-way places or in the evening when they don’t present a nuisance to others, besides the owners making sure that no mess is left behind.

Mr Farrugia’s statement that “it is her problem if she doesn’t feel safe next to a dog” betrays lack of care for others.