Letter: A better life for animals

Sir: After the RSPCA week in which we have been reminded of the incredible cruelty to some animals, may I suggest a way forward?

We have instruction and a test when we want to drive a car; we have some rudimentary classes when children are brought into the world - but most people who take on an animal have no idea how to care for it or train it.

I would like to see the reintroduction of a licence like the dog licence, but one covering all animals, and a mandatory course of training with each new animal. If owners are cruel to the animal a court could withdraw the licence and take the animal into care for rehoming. The price of the licence should be at least pounds 50 for the life of that animal.

GRAHAM HOWES

London N19