The statement about the hounds having nowhere to go is bullshite, Bassett's aren't kept solely as hunting dogs, they're social affable dogs who are perfectly happy being kept as home / farm pets as they are hunting. Also, there's no way a bite around the neck from a single one of these dogs would kill the fox instantly, my whole family are dog breeders and I've seen lots of dog bites and been on the receiving end of a few also.. and I would rather be bitten by the average hunting hound than stung by a wasp.
Also, I think it's easy to lose sight of the context jamies little racer - this isn't a fly, or an ant we're talking about it's a warm blooded mammal and yes, its life IS more precious than an insect! I believe any animal NOT on the human food chain (that leaves very little) may need to be culled HUMANELY if REALLY causing a problem to society if it's left unchecked, but the huntsmen and women are not the right option.
And bringing up the animal testing card is a load of bollocks. I get really upset when I think about it and used to want to get it banned when I was younger. I hate to think of the animals and the life they go through... but I hated it more when my mum got cancer twice and when testing on an animal might help someone stay alive then even though I hate the idea of it, I admit it has to be done.
The seals issue is sick IMO, I think it's the most horrific culling that happens on this planet. Don't even start on that one!
Ben