Regarding Stephen Smith's column "Canines Top Topic of Many Books":

Steve, save your graphic descriptions for the Bushnell Hamp Poems, something we can laugh about. I have heard of people eating people when they were out at sea and had no food. Not a pleasant thought, but factual. So give dogs a break.

There are those of us who have a doctorate degree in loving animals, and those of us who never made it through first grade. I'm speaking of the way we were brought up. I've had pets (plural) since I opened my eyes, and even Paddy, who was there before I was born, was loved devotedly by my mother.

Come on, Steve. I've known you for 20 years, and I never once suspected your cold regard for animals. Who's your lovely friend who said, "Just another #@!&% Lassie story"? Poor soul. He/she doesn't feel a thing; I'd hate to be his/her spouse.

Another thing -- lying down with dogs, you really might get fleas, but I can think of worse things to lie down with and worse things to get up with.

Just a thought, my friend. I love you, but you missed my boat. Too bad. You are a good writer and kind of cute in your fashion.

Dedi McHam

Southern Pines