I AM sure that all of us who are true animal lovers can fully empathise with the feelings of Terry Jerrard (Letters, March 13) in his sad loss.

Those who do not like animals (or who regard them as ‘just animals’) cannot possibly understand the void that is created when a dearly loved pet and companion is no longer part of a person’s or family’s life.

Over the past 40 years or so, we have had several pets, both of the canine and feline variety.

All, except one, have come to us as strays as though they seem to know we were here, and on each occasion, despite numerous efforts and advertisements, we never succeeded in locating a single owner.

Each animal has been worth every penny spent on it and has rewarded us with affection, loyalty, companionship and amusement.

In fact, we have regarded the pleasures that they have given us as an extension of God’s blessings.

Cruelty to any animal in any form is beyond our comprehension.

So I sincerely hope that Terry will see his way clear to adopt another animal, not as a replacement for Bruno but as an extension to the pleasurable times he and his family have already experienced and for the good fortune of the animal yet to be involved.

ROBERT TUCK, Pardy’s Hill, Corfe Mullen