Aside from the nuisance factor, some dog faeces contains toxocara, which presents a health

hazard particularly in areas where children play.

The basic hazard arises from dogs, however the risk is from irresponsible dog owners. Better

education and improved dog litter facilities are clearly the answer.

I am not a dog owner, however I was angered by Mrs Evans letter (Your Letters, March 19) and would wish to clarify the matter in respect of the so-called "serious health risk" presented by dogs.

The incidence of toxocariasis is extremely low, particularly compared to the adverse health effects of human-borne faecal diseases which are high in this country due to poor personal hygiene standards.

It would be naive to accept all that one reads on the internet since it is entirely unregulated. The website www.ccc.uk.com presents a one-sided discourse on toxocariasis.

There are numerous positive health effects of dog ownership which far outweigh any adverse effects. Interacting with a dog reduces the cardiovascular, behavioural and psychological indicators of stress.

Being in the presence of a dog, and particularly petting one, can reduce blood pressure. Dogs have been used by psychiatrists and psychologists in psychotherapy for many years - notably in the treatment of violent offenders.

People who own pets report better health when compared to non-pet owners and it has been shown pet owners make fewer visits to their doctors than non-owners. Studies have shown that owning a dog has a significant effect on survival rates after heart attack.

Children who are brought up with dogs and similar pets suffer from fewer allergies than those brought up in non-animal owning households.

Mr Neil Chatten MSc AIIRSM, Old Wyche Road, Malvern Wells.