Is Peter Atkins' suggestion (Letters, March 21) that fewer rescue centres would solve the pet overpopulation problem rather flippant?
The stray animals came first and sanctuaries grew out of their need.
The problem is irresponsible pet owners not getting their pets neutered, and unregulated breeders.
Many rescue centres start as someone finding a stray animal and taking it in, taking the responsibility that the original owner should have.
Then people find out and take advantage, dumping their unwanted animals on the doorstep, or else they just shut the door on them and let them take their chance.
Most rescue centres don't let their animals go to new homes without first being neutered, and they are usually de-wormed, de-fleaed and micro-chipped.
They also do their best in vetting new owners, although they can be more of a wild card than the animals.
Roberta Balfour
Malvern
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here