To the editor:

The letter "Amherst dog law must be based on 'true facts'" (Gazette, Oct. 15) notes that "true facts" must take center stage in the heated debate about a leash law at Amethyst Brook. I agree whole-heartedly. However, he then uses his own nonfactual judgements to suggest that "walkers need to tone down their rhetoric and admit they haven't been attacked."

Regretfully, the writer used nonfacts to dismiss the reality of others. I have been attacked before and have a scar to prove it. I've also been jumped on, leaving me with bloody scratches. And I've been cornered by an aggressive border collie for several minutes before owners came to the scene to clarify that their dog is "friendly." Silly me, I should have known.

Bottom line: everyone should recognize one simple truth, that leashed dogs will be much more controllable under any circumstance, thus promoting respectful behavior of a civil society.

Steve Funderburk

Pelham