I WAS shocked and saddened by The Bolton News report on the huge theft of "handbag dogs" and other specially bred dogs.

There has been a dreadful increase in dogs of all kinds, often mutilated, being bred for a large section of the population, who see only a cuddle factor.

Sadly, The Bolton News failed to persuade folks to think twice, three times and more before buying a dog.

Don't fall for the pointless celebrity guff.

Dogs are distantly related to wolves and enjoy life if they are part of the pack.

In households, this is being part of the family . . . following rules, enjoying walks and fun and games, but sticking to a structure.

They are not cuddle creatures to bung in a handbag or stick on a cushion.

I love dogs, but have never owned one since the arrival of Kim in by early teens.

It took a while, but once he learned discipline, he was part of the family pack.

Walks, games, respecting visitors and knowing his place.

TV and the media push the "aaw" factor too much . . . dogs being there to be hugged, cuddled and cushioned.

Much though I would have liked a dog, work and times away would have been unsuitable.

Cate are a little different. Many years ago, I was "chosen" by a cat which entered y house one freezing January night, curled up by the radiator and stayed.

He fitted into my domestic life and stayed many years until his blindness led me to make a sad decision.

When out walking with friends, I see many happy, well-trained and disciplined dogs enjoying the countryside as part of the pack.

Isn't it time society and the media took in hand the reality of what dogs really are and the special place domestic and and working dogs play in our lives.

David Sharples

Tarbet Drive

Breightmet