Remembering animal victims of war
At this time of year we commemorate sacrifices made by the armed forces and civilians in times of war.
As well as humans we should not forget millions of animals who are the hidden victims of war.
Animals have been used as messengers, for detection, scouting, rescue and beasts of burden. Even glow worms enabled troops to read maps in the dark.
In war zones, domestic and wild animals become displaced and abandoned. At Baghdad zoo big cats were left to starve in their cages and other animals were used as "mascots" for soldiers, only to be later abandoned.
Between 1997 and 2007 the number of animals used in weapons research in British laboratories rose from 4,500 to 18,000 a year. These animals are subjected to chemical warfare agents, sensory irritants, bacterial toxins and weapons testing.
Red poppies are a symbol of remembrance for human victims of war. Purple poppies commemorate animals who have lost their lives as a result of human conflict. Animals do not make wars or weapons. These victims deserve to be respected and remembered.
Elizabeth Allison, Aylestone.
Comments
by Sarah, Surrey
Friday, October 29 2010, 12:50AM
“No, red poppies raise money for the support of injured service men and women and for the relatives of those who died. Purple poppies raise money for the running costs of an animal rights organisation. You can choose to contribute to paying for the treatment and rehabilitation of a young man who has had his leg blown off, or you can contribute to paying for the expenses of a PR executive. Your choice. Everybody will be able to tell which one you made...”