Hunting with hounds

SIR – As veterinary professionals committed to upholding the highest possible standards of animal welfare, we are opposed to any dilution or repeal of the Hunting Act.

The Burns report from 2000 concluded that hunting with dogs has serious welfare implications for quarry animals such as foxes, deer, hares and mink. Foxes in particular will instinctively try to go to ground when pursued, but hunts block these escape routes, forcing a prolonged chase. If a fox does go to ground, it will likely be pursued by terriers, dug out and shot.

Hunting with hounds is not an effective method of wild animal population control; nor is it a suitable way to deal with diseased animals. Studies suggest that since the introduction of the Hunting Act, fox populations in Britain have remained roughly stable; and while foxes take some livestock, they do not have a major impact on farming incomes.

Foxhounds and other hunting dogs are known to be potentially infected by pathogens, including the bacterium responsible for bovine TB. Repeal of the Hunting Act could increase the spread of infectious disease agents.

Polls show public support for the Act. We call on members of veterinary professions and organisations to make clear their opposition to hunting with hounds, both during and after the election campaign.

Dr Iain Mcgill

Marc Abraham

Mark Jones and 23 others; see telegraph.co.uk