AS winter approaches, wild animals are more likely to seek warmth and shelter inside our homes.

Some of these, such as rats and mice, are often viewed as unwelcome visitors.

But please try to remember that these animals are just as sensitive and liable to suffer as the cats and dogs with whom we choose to share our homes. These unwelcome guests should be humanely deterred from visiting – not subjected to the appalling cruelty of traps and poisons.

Animal Aid provides free information on how to stop these animals from taking up residence without harming them, and how to encourage them to leave if they have already arrived.

We have information available on rats and mice, birds, squirrels, foxes and moles. Please email info@animalaid.org.uk

Isobel Hutchinson, Animal Aid