SIR: I wish to endorse the comments made by Mr Divine, Regional Manager (RSPCA), regarding the Dog Dating Agency set up by Mr Kevin Horkin.

Regrettably, it is he who has gone ahead with this venture without knowing the full facts.

Breeders who know what they are doing, i.e. reputable breeders who breed for conformation and temperament, should themselves recognise which stud dogs to use. This service is going to encourage, as he admits, novices to "have a go".

Does he realise that there are over 100 Breed Rescues specialising in their own favourite breeds, from dachshunds to deerhounds, and from pekingese to pointers. Sorry, but not every pedigree is a wanted dog. What guarantee can Mr Horkin give that the dogs or bitches registering with his agency do not carry the genetic disorders reputable breeders are trying to eliminate, and no-one can guarantee the puppies will all find good homes. Sold, maybe, but not necessarily to the right homes.

Katherine M Kay (Mrs)

Boonfields, Bromley Cross, Bolton

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.