THE letter by Alistair Loftus' letter in the December 11 edition stating his intent not to fully comply with the new Dog Control Orders left me stunned. To state, as he does, that because the control orders also apply to open moorland it could lead to farmers having to pick up sheep, cattle and pony droppings is nonsense.  The control orders specifically apply to dogs because dog fouling can lead to toxocariasis in humans, which causes serious illness and even blindness. Fouling laws and control orders do not cover faeces from other animals, because they aren't hosts for toxicara. People should be able to use the moors for recreation as much as anywhere else without having to be worried about the dangers posed by dog fouling — especially when the moors are such a wonderful playground for young children, to whom toxicariasis is the biggest threat. I would ask Mr Loftus one simple question - how would he feel if his logic was applied to litter.  Surely he wouldn't suggest that everyone should use waste bins to dispose of their litter in built up areas but that they needn't bother while out on the moors? The vast majority of dog owners are responsible and pick up all the foulings of their dogs — not just when they foul in built up areas — but sadly, a small minority would appear to think that they are above the law.  As a parent with two young children who love the moor, I sincerely hope the new orders are properly enforced and help remind all dog owners of the need to be responsible 100% of the time. Peter Harding Tavistock