I WRITE in response to the letter entitled "Bring back dog licences" (LET, January 19). Children should be taught never to approach a dog without asking permission of its owner first. Those kids who are left to roam around the park are a nuisance to unsuspecting dogs going about their daily exercise.

Dogs have just as much right to be in the park as children. Provocation leads to snapping, which in the dogs' understanding is a warning to keep away. Having recently moved to Padiham I was appalled at the absence of dog bins.

I own an insured, microchipped, neutered, fully inoculated dog. I also pick up my dog's faeces.

I realise I may be in the minority, but if the council provided more bins and more frequently emptied existing bins, maybe others will be encouraged to pick up behind their pets, and it wouldn't give people like Mr Beardsworth a chance to whinge about the nation's best loved pet.

Licences aren't the answer. Educate people into becoming more responsible with children and dogs.

TRACY WHITE, Wesley Street, Padiham.