Readers have responded to a recent article highlighting the growing presence of dogs in public spaces, with some expressing serious safety and health concerns. Elaine Fraser, a reader from London, shared her experience of being trapped in a restaurant due to an unleashed dog, which triggered a panic attack. She also described an incident at a market where a dog was jumping at passersby and investigating pushchairs, leaving her in tears until a passerby intervened.
Judith Cutler from Cirencester, Gloucestershire, who suffers from a severe dog allergy, called for dog-free zones, particularly on planes. She noted that even with prophylactic medication, which has side effects, she cannot risk being near dogs with standard coats.
Marlene Godfrey from Beverley, East Riding of Yorkshire, argued that dogs should not be allowed in any public place where food is sold, prepared, or eaten. She advocated for the reintroduction of a high-priced dog licence, with funds ringfenced to employ dog wardens to enforce regulations.
