DOG owners – whilst cycling toward Haresfield Beacon recently a boxer dog approached me baring its teeth, snarling and barking.

I stopped and as the owner caught up with his pet I complained the dog was dangerous and out of control. Instead of attempting to ameliorate the situation the dog’s owner quickly went on the defensive. What if there were children riding with me, what would have happened?

I can only imagine how they might have reacted.

Many readers will be aware of the recent tragedy near Camp where a dog caused the death of a horse rider. Had I been riding a horse I could have been facing a similar situation.

Owning a dog comes with responsibilities.

Unfortunately there are a minority of owners whose pets are not safe in public.

Don’t allow your pet to react badly to members of the public enjoying very normal pursuits.

Ian Hunter

Ebley