Absolutely astonishing

An OP reader’s comment that hunting dogs should not be included in animal welfare legislation was not popular

Dear Olive Press,

I READ with astonishment an online comment from someone who stated ‘I have no sympathy for hunting dogs’.

Whilst sharing the writer’s dislike of hunting, to agree that such dogs be excluded from animal welfare laws, as is the case, was incredible. Many of these dogs are kept in squalid conditions and, when they are no longer considered useful, disposed of. Longstanding methods are to hang them from trees, throw them down disused wells and a variety of other sadistic measures.

I recently read an opinion that the Spanish Galgo was the most abused breed of dog on the planet.

A year ago I adopted two ex-hunting Galgos. Initially if I picked up a sweeping brush or raised my voice they would cower on the ground in anticipation of their expected beating.

One year on and I have a pair of delightful, happy, trusting, loving dogs. They have thrived under my personal animal welfare law.

George Headen, Javea

Editor’s note: You will be pleased to hear that in Valencia at least, hunting dogs have been included in a regional animal welfare law, as reported on page 4.