Humane Rat Trap Sent to Wormwood Scrubs Prison

For Immediate Release:

15 April 2016

Contact:

Jennifer White +44 (0) 2078376327, ext 222; [email protected]

HUMANE RAT TRAP SENT TO WORMWOOD SCRUBS PRISON

PETA Sends Prison Tips and Humane Trap to Address Unwanted Guests

London – After learning that Wormwood Scrubs prison was seeing a rise in its rat population, PETA has sent the prison an example humane trap and a letter urging the use of only humane trapping methods.

“By choosing non-lethal, humane traps, Wormwood Scrubs will set the right example to prisoners that all living beings deserve to be treated in a non-violent, compassionate and respectful manner,” says PETA campaign coordinator Kirsty Henderson.

In the letter, PETA points out that killing rats is not only cruel but also ineffective. As long as the area remains hospitable, more rodents will simply move in to take the place of those killed. Modifications – including sealing up cracks and holes in walls and foundations, keeping food and rubbish in sealed containers, and keeping floors and countertops clean and free of crumbs and spilled food – discourage rats from entering a space.

PETA has also urged Wormwood Scrubs to avoid using glue traps, which are the cruellest rodent-control devices available. Animals who are caught in these traps panic and struggle – tearing skin and flesh – only to die from shock, dehydration, asphyxiation or blood loss.

Rats and mice are fastidiously clean animals who groom themselves several times a day and are less likely to catch and transmit parasites and viruses than dogs and cats are.

PETA’s letter to Wormwood scrubs is available here. For more information on humane rat control, please visit PETA.org.uk.

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