WHY is it that certain dog owners are so piqued by justifiable criticism of the filthy mess left around our streets, cemeteries and country parks, that they write such pathetic letters to the BEN as exemplified in the July 10 edition?

C Woods's remarks about horse manure are just laughable. Does he not know that this is, and has been for centuries, the traditional, organic material for enriching the soil. Horse manure is safe and is sold in bags door to door for gardens. Dog dirt is a menace to health, especially children's and is repulsive to look at.

I walk regularly in Moses Gate Country Park and the adjacent cemetery and have watched dog owners allowing their pets to foul paths, grass verges and picnic areas. The common trick is the let the dog off the lead, amble a few yards ahead, whistle or hum nonchalantly and, when the deed is done, continue walkies as if nothing has occurred. It is a very rare occurrence to see an owner picking the droppings up, but I always feel like clapping when I see this.

In spite of all the publicity about fines metered out to irresponsible dog owners, Moses Gate Country Park and Farnworth cemetery continue to be used as dog lavatories.

(name and address supplied)