Campaigners vow to find goats a home
A herd of goats used for military scientific tests look set to be rehoused, thanks to The News.
The 40 animals, three-quarters of which were subject to controversial lab studies in which they were put into pressure chambers, are now likely to be able to start new lives at animal sanctuaries across the south.
When the Ministry of Defence vowed to stop all testing at its QinetiQ site in Gosport last Wednesday, the future of the goats was uncertain.
QinetiQ was unable to guarantee that some of the animals wouldn't be culled, but The News contacted an animal rights group to alert them to the goats' plight and members have vowed to rehouse the animals in sanctuaries.
The Southern Animal Rights Coalition has said it will take the animals and find them loving homes.
A vet will now check whether the homes are suitable.
SARC member Tom Harris, 24 of Alver Road, Gosport, said: 'Their welfare has always been our number one priority so it's imperative to find good homes for all these animals.
'After the lives they've led I sincerely hope that they can live out the rest of their years in a peaceful happy way and as close to nature as we can get them.'
Peter Viggers, MP for Gosport, added: 'There are technical provisions which apply here and a vet must certify that the animal is kept in appropriate conditions and that it will not suffer.
'Having discussed the matter with QinetiQ, I'm confident that those involved will do their very best to achieve a satisfactory outcome.'
QinetiQ spokesman Douglas Millard said a vet who is looking after the welfare of the goats will investigate whether the sanctuaries are suitable.
'Every effort will be made to relocate as many of them as possible to appropriate and certified establishments,' he said.
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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