I have lived in Sea Pines for 15 years and never have had or seen an attacking dog.

My golden retriever, Delany, has been voice trained on the beach since eight-weeks-old. Now 7, my dog has never bothered anyone. There are probably a thousand or more dogs on the beaches every day, with few reported incidents. There are more reported incidents regarding human-to-human behavior -- shootings, domestic altercations, etc.

As for Mary Smetek, what credentials does she have to say that only law enforcement and helper dogs respond consistently to voice commands? The dog whisperer, Cesar Millan, would disagree with you. Any member of The Island Packet staff is welcome to join me and all my dog-loving friends for a fun time on the beach.

Paul Landry

Hilton Head Island