Problem of unleashed dogs at lake

ARE unleashed dogs a problem at Lough Lannagh in Castlebar?

A reader, who is a regular runner, has been in contact with The Connaught Telegraph to highlight her concerns about dogs being let run without a leash around the lake.

She says she encounters problems on a regular basis on her morning runs around the lake.

“I thought there was a law that dogs at the lake should be kept on a leash at all times,” she wrote, pointing out that the lake circuit is popular with walkers, runners and families with small children.

Her note continues: “It doesn't matter how lovely a dog can look. They are unpredictable, like all animals. On my regular run they often come up to me for a sniff, causing me to stop and wait until the sniffing is over. My fear is that they will bite.

“I often see them running towards runners with the intention of protecting their owners. The most frightening thing for me is to see a large dog running towards a small child. It often happens.”

Our correspondent says she has been on to Mayo County Council about the problem but so far no visible action has been taken on her concerns.

Anyone else with views on this issue?