I WOULD like to thank John S L Evans for replying to my letter. If Mr Evans had taken the trouble to read my letter correctly, I stated that you should find out exactly what the Pat Dogs do to help patients before criticising .

Yes, Mr Evans, dogs do sniff one another, but have you ever seen a dog spitting on the pavement? I haven't. Humans have some terrible habits -- much worse than dogs.

Yes, dogs foul the pavements, but responsible owners clean up after their pet. I have yet to see anybody clean up after spitting out. You are entitled to your opinion, but after having a dog of my own and knowing the love and trust a dog gives, it is worth its weight in gold.

Some patients in hospital have had to make arrangements for their pet to be looked after and miss the contact. The Pat Dogs help to relieve the stress. You are very fortunate not to have had to go into hospital. Some have no relatives to visit them and are very lonely.

I miss my dog very much and I'm trying to come to terms with his loss. So please, Mr Evans, don't knock the good work of the Pat Dogs. I would give anything to reach my hand out and stroke my dog.

Mrs G Brockbank

Chorley Old Road

Bolton