I TAKE up the challenge by David C Tarplett (Postbag, May 4) and am replying to his letter.

I pity the man who walks the hills unaccompanied by a dog and in fact can see no joy in doing so without at least one of these faithful companions.

I myself am one of Mr Tarplett's 'unique products', being the proud owner of three wonderful dogs.

In answer to his hysterical rantings concerning 'disgusting deposits of infectious filth', I suggest he watches where he treads next time. Or are his thoughts so elevated that he has his eyes fixed on the heavens and not, as most of us, on the path?

MRS S BARRIE, St Andrews Road, Malvern.