I was disgusted when I read about Les Gillot's behaviour in the Gazette [Owner of off-leash dog attacked me claims Hayes marathon runner,Gazette,February 18].

I totally back the owner of the Collie dog for protecting his dog before Mr Gillot harmed it.

Being a dog owner myself I would have done the same thing.

A man of his age shouldn't be provoking anti-social behaviour.

Just because a dog was innocently running along the same canal as Mr Gillot, he does not have the right to verbally assault and threaten the owner by saying: "Shall Ikick it?" Mr Gillot obviously aggravated a situation that didn't exist.

How would Mr Gillot have reacted if I saw his children or grandchildren running along the same canal as me and I said: "Shall I kick them"

You may think that there is huge difference here but I assure you not.

You may have felt that the dog running is dangerous - as I may feel that his children may be potential muggers chasing me,and deserve the same lack of respect.

Mr Gillot, instead of moaning to the local paper that your over arrogant behavior got you threatened, I strongly suggest that you get a book on dog behaviour and read it very carefully.

You will then learn that when a dog runs it is because the dog is happy and wants to play.

You should feel ashamed and embarrassed by your behaviour.

MICHELLE LAMBERT,

by email.