SIR – Your article about Harvey the cat, shot at by thugs (T&A, June 16), underlines the link between anti-social behaviour and animal cruelty.

It is time more schools were given the opportunity to teach pet welfare as part of citizenship studies.

Local animal charities need to be supported in providing the opportunity to share their knowledge in local schools and engender compassion from a young age – before it’s too late.

Children need more than abstract lessons on animals in other countries; they need to understand the needs and behaviours of cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters, parrots and so on –innocent, living beings reliant on us for their wellbeing that are right on their doorstep.

Haworth Cat Rescue successfully completed a pilot scheme at Haworth Primary School last year which was praised by the head and teacher involved.

The trouble is, nobody cares enough to dig into their pockets. We cannot get funding from the Council – it is earmarked for the benefit of people. Yet, our work and that of all animal charities, is inextricably entwined with our communities.

Meanwhile we are meant to laugh at the Paddy Power World Cup advert where the team is seen kicking a cat. What hope is there?

Corinne Moore, Campaign Manager, Haworth Cat Rescue, Lower Pierce Close, Cross Roads, Keighley