THE stories of thugs who find fun in riling their dogs into a frenzy to attack cats (Oxford Mail, May 1) are an indictment on our society.

If one of these dogs gets free and attacks someone, the dog will be put down, even though the fault is at the other end of the lead.

Also, these degenerates, by hiding under their hoods, show what cowards they are.

Without a doubt, these individuals are mentally sick, and when caught, should, without any reprieve or consideration, be considered for treatment.

My concern is that if they are not treated, and become fed up with finding pleasure in the torture of defenceless animals, what is next in line for their brutality?

Will it be a child, an OAP, or maybe their next door neighbour?

History has shown many young animal abusers become serial killers.

Someone has instilled into these people an undying hatred that needs desperately to be cured now, before it’s too late – and before they turn their unbalanced minds to other atrocities.

I may be speaking out of turn, but my personal feelings are that the parents of these animal-abusing criminals have a lot to answer for.

It appears that no respect or consideration has ever been instilled by the people responsible for the direction these youngsters should take in life.

If they are guilty and fined, then make the parents pay.

JAMES BUCKNER, (Address supplied)