CARE OF ANIMALS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20779, 23 January 1931, Page 5

CARE OF ANIMALS.

A most interesting book is in the possession of a lady residing in "Wellington at present, states an exchange. It is tho tenth annual report of the London Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which belonged to Queen Victoria, and is handsomely bound in purple morocco etched with gold and with tho Royal Arms in gold also. The report states that tho society was formed in 1824 under tho patronage of Her Royal Highness "the Duchess of Kent and Her Royal Highness tho Princess Victoria (afterwards Queen Victoria). r lho book contains a copy of the original Act passed protecting animals, and a full account of tlio speeches made at tho tenth annual meeting, which was held at 1' rccmasons Hall under tlio chairmanship of Sir George Chctwynde. There aro some quaint, but well-executed wood-cuts of animals throughout the publication, with accounts of treatment meted out to them by cruel people, and tho means the society had taken to have them checked. The over-driving of animals to Smithfield market, tho treatment of cab-horses, and hunting aro specially dealt with. Mention is made of the wonderful kindness of some of tho poorest people to their domestic animals, particularly to tho asses which drew small carts in the city. They found that even the children would give up some of their food in order that the animals might liavo a share. A number of legacies aro noted, also donations from many royalties and titled people.