DURING the history of human conflict, animals have been used as messengers, for detection, scouting and rescue, as beasts of burden and on the frontline.
They have been used for companionship in the trenches and continue to be subjected to horrific warfare experiments in laboratories.
Although millions of animals have lost their lives in humans' wars, they are rarely mentioned in remembrance ceremonies.
To commemorate all the animal victims, Animal Aid has issued a purple poppy, which can be worn alongside the traditional red one as a reminder that both humans and animals have been - and continue to be - victims of war.
The purple poppies cost £1 each (including postage and packing) and are available from www.animalaid.org.uk or by calling 01732 364546.
A free copy of Animal Aid's colour booklet, Animals: the hidden victims of war, accompanies each order.
KATE FOWLER-REEVES, Animal Aid.
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