I AM writing further to my last letter (June 24) and in reply to Don Dent (Letters, July 1), he seems to have missed my point regarding the RSPCA's rescued animals.

Of course I realise that animals are mistreated and abused. That was my point! As staff at the animal shelter do such a marvellous job in rescuing and rehabilitating pets and preventing this in the first place surely they are going a step backwards in not allowing the public to support them?

As a family we have always supported the RSPCA. I ask again though, is making people jump through so many hoops the way to get these animals re-homed?

Don't you think if it's too much trouble people will simply buy from a mate down the pub, from the local ads, or via the internet.

I have no objection whatsoever in having a home visit - or paying the fees required, but I would have liked the opportunity to choose a pet first.

Claire Baron,

York Road,

Strensall, York.

Updated: 09:49 Friday, July 08, 2005