A RUABON woman who shared experiences of the abuse she has had over her support dog has received the backing of an MP.

Catherine Anderson, 69, is registered partially sighted following a diagnosis of glaucoma some years ago and has osteoarthritis.

The Leader reported recently how Mrs Anderson had an upsetting experience in a supermarket - in which she said she was left feeling humiliated and upset.

She'd placed Madison, a trained emotional support dog who goes everywhere with her, on a blanket in her trolley's child seat - as the five-year-old is Yorkshire terrier is timid when walking around them.

But she was asked to take Madison out after another customer raised concerns; leading her to call for compassion and understanding from those who see others relying on the support of such four-legged companions.

She described how, over the years, she has been sworn, shouted and even spat at by those who want to stroke and interact with Madison, only to be asked not to.

After reading about her tale in the Leader, Clwyd South MP Simon Baynes reached out to Mrs Anderson to offer his support.

In a letter to her, he said: "I was shocked to read of the abuse you have received.

"I understand how essential Madison is in allowing you to lead a normal life and it is important others recognise this.

"Your interview in the Wrexham Leader will educate others about this and is a testament to your own perseverance."

Mrs Anderson said she was very pleased to receive the message, but even since last month's story she has received abuse yet again.

She told the Leader she was out shopping when another woman spotted Madison.

"Madison had gone behind me," she said, "because her confidence is gone with trolleys.

"This lady asked me - is she nervous?

"I said she's an assistance dog and standing there is her way of telling you she's working and won't let you touch her.

"She called me a b******. I don't like bad language of any kind and I don't like it thrown at me.

"It was awful; she just came out with it and there was no call for it.

"I came home and just burst into tears."

Mrs Anderson said she wished to reiterate her plea for people to be more considerate and understanding towards people who rely on service and support dogs.