The abandonment of pets by their heartless owners is disgraceful at any time of the year but seems more poignant during the "season of goodwill" ("New home is needed for Christmas-present pup", Mercury, December 30).

Animal rescue centres are inundated with unwanted pets and I am dismayed that people who call themselves animal lovers don't have their pets neutered or spayed.

I am even more dismayed by people who deliberately breed animals for the pet trade when the supply of pets exceeds demand.

Animals are not money-making commodities. They are not fashion accessories, ornaments or status symbols. Animal adoption is a serious matter not a frivolous fancy.

Animals are sentient creatures possessing the same range of emotions as humans. They deserve our love, kindness and respect.

Mrs Elizabeth Allison, Aylestone.