SIR - In reply to the the resent correspondence from M Billingham (February 22 and 23 ) on the subject of tail docking for working dogs. The most important reason for tail-docking is the welfare of the dog. After this, the decision is based on the breed of dog and the work it will undertake.

Breeds such as the spaniel work in heavy undergrowth including brambles. Unfortunately, they also have a thin covering of fine hair to their tails. Under these circumstances an un-docked tail is quickly going to need veterinary attention to some nasty wounds. On some occasions this may even mean amputation which is extremely traumatic for a mature dog.

Other breeds, such as the Labrador and retriever have a dense coat to the tail. They are also worked much less in undergrowth. This, combined with a slower pace and a lesser tendency to wag their tails, means that damage is extremely rare. The collie is a herding dog that works at great speed on open ground. Moving livestock by its very sight means that it avoids entering undergrowth.

Annually, farmers dock millions of lambs because of animal welfare. Amazingly this has not raised the storm of unfounded and emotive criticism we have witnessed over the docking by veterinary surgeons of a few thousand dogs.

Jon Burgess,

Malvern.