In the debate over dogs, there is one issue that can often be forgotten. This is the fact that dog excrement can, through the Toxocara parasite, pose an extremely serious health risk, especially to children. 

The eggs of the Toxocara parasite are passed in the faeces of affected dogs and can survive for many months in sand or soil. The parasite can cause many health problems including stomach problems and even blindness. It is very difficult to treat – there is no easy remedy once the parasite has entered the child's body. Dog faeces may also carry hepatitis and e.coli. 

Responsible dog owners will of course ensure that their dogs are regularly wormed and under the care of a vet to reduce the risks – but it is not the responsible ones who allow their dogs to foul the beach and leave the excrement in the sand or the seaweed. Maybe this is eventually washed away by the sea – but in the meantime children risk treading or falling in it, with certainly unpleasant and potentially serious consequences.

As a final thought, my grandchildren are taught how to behave around dogs – never to startle them, and always to ask the owner's permission before approaching their pet. 

However, many dog owners fail to show the same respect for children, and allow their animals to rush boisterously up to them regardless of whether the child is expecting or would welcome this. Because of this behaviour, sad to say, my youngest grandchild is now afraid of dogs and shrinks away when they come charging up to her on the beach. 

It goes without saying that there are, of course, caring and responsible dog owners whose animals are well cared for and well behaved. It is just a great shame for the rest of us that so many owners fail to fulfil the responsibilities that should come with owning a dog.

Judy,
Falmouth