REGARDING the tragic episode of David Kearney, who died after being mauled by Rottweilers (Citizen, August 15).

While I have sympathy for the great loss and grief of the family, I am equally concerned about the distress caused to the dog owner and of the hasty reaction to have the poor dogs put down.

The animals were only doing what was expected of them - deterring intruders from trespassing on their property.

Various breeds of dog are owned by many folk for that same purpose, not only as affectionate companions but also as a reassurance that it will bark to warn when anyone is about their property - friend or foe.

As we all know, lots of kids lack discipline and respect, resulting in stupid, irresponsible behaviour.

With cheek and audacity they think nothing of wondering into any garden, no matter that there is a closed gate with the sign "Beware of dog".

If they are bitten the dog is condemned for doing its job - what a shameful injustice to the dumb animal.

J A Marsden

Scarborough Road

Blackburn

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