I'M shocked that the Government is considering removing the current protection given to our stray cats and dogs from being used in experiments. Losing a pet is distressing, but the idea that the animal could potentially end up in a laboratory is ghastly and unacceptable, and I urge the Government to reconsider.

Not only would there be large public opposition, such a move would also contradict the Government's previous claims that British legislation will not be weakened. In the past, the BUAV has campaigned extensively against the use of unwanted and abandoned cats and dogs being supplied to laboratories by unscrupulous animal dealers; a practice that was once common.

To subject lost pets to painful experiments would be an extraordinary betrayal of the trust that companion animals put in us – but it is one that the Government plans to make possible.

Please write to your MP, councillors, district councillors anyone who would be involved or could influence this decision.

– Elaine Bradley.