The dog population has exploded in this country and so too have the problems that have come with it. Nuisance dogs can now be heard barking all the way through the night, that seemingly never bother the owner, but everybody else. No satisfaction is given to those affected when confronting a neighbour in relation to a dog left out all night to howl its head off, other than to blame it on somebody else.

Canine problems don't end there. Dog fouling has become so much of a problem, it is now regarded by local authorities – but not by owners – as a major environmental hazard. It's nearly impossible to take a walk anywhere on a public footpath without stepping into a mess left by some indifferent owner. Then we have the 'puppies-for-Xmas brigade' who push unwanted pets on obliging neighbours, or rush desperately to the dogs home after the festive cheer is over. Ownership of vicious and dangerous breeds has also become a major problem. All too frequently we hear of people being savaged by dangerous dogs and attacking other dogs.

It's time the dog population was brought under control and stiffer penalties imposed on our indifferent dog-owning section of the population who don't give a damn.

Maurice Fitzgerald,

Ringaskiddy,

Co Cork.