Time to speak out

Dog walking on the Broadstrand has been a popular venue with dog owners for many years.

As I understand it, dog mess has been becoming more of an issue with the public in this and surrounding areas of Rustington.

There is one notice at the end of Broadmark Lane on the entry to the Broadstrand, informing dog owners that failure to clear up their dogs mess could result in a £1,000 fine.

Most of the dog walkers I have encountered are also aware of the problems and take adequate bagging for the probable mess their dog will make.

The problem, as I see it, is that the dog walkers do not have control of their dog’s doings.

As soon as they are on the Broadstand they unleash their dogs to run free.

At this time the dogs are free to sniff and poo wherever they want.

Many is the time I see distracted dog owners talking to friends or like-minded dog walkers while their dogs go off to foul wherever.

This was definitely the case when I was attacked – the assailant’s dog was out of control and running free, totally unobserved.

As always, the minority causes the majority to suffer and unfortunately it leads me to suggest that free-running dog walking in Rustington should be banned and all dogs in public places should be kept on a restraining lead.

This suggestion will be controversial, but I feel that a drastic review of dog walkers’ responsibilities in Rustington should be put in place.

My own recent experience with the violent dog walker has cost me a lot, including hospitalisation, an operation and three months in plaster, etc.

The experience has made me reconsider acts of good citizenship.

I will certainly think twice about the consequences of what can happen.

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