THE Forest of Dean boar are the wrong kind of boar and should be exterminated. They are a danger to both people and to people with dogs.

Once that has been done, it may then be possible to consider introducing natural wild boar from Europe. The decision to do this should be done in accordance with the principles of local democracy. Perhaps there should be a local forum and referendum, so all those affected by the possible reintroduction of boar are involved in the decision making.

Having said that, I have little sympathy for dog walkers and their dogs being threatened or attacked by the existing boar in the Forest. Dogs are carnivores and are obviously perceived by the boar as a threat. It cannot be any surprise that the boar will take against dogs. On top of that and in some ways worse than that, pet dogs are also little more than defecating biting machines and it is not only the boar who are threatened by them.

I always carry a stick when I walk in the Forest. Firstly for support should I sprain an ankle and secondly to protect myself from other people's dogs. Fortunately most dog walkers do not penetrate far into the Forest. Most are mainly interested in the Forest only as a free toilet for their animals.

Therefore, not only should the boar be exterminated but dogs should only be allowed into the Forest muzzled and on a lead.

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