Publisher's Synopsis
This report by a working party of the Council for Science and Society aims to provide a clear and unbiased view of the role of companion animals in contemporary British society. It explores the history of companion animals, their numbers, legal status, welfare, impact on the economy, value as social partners and the problems they create. It also raises a number of ethical issues and makes recommendations for the future where appropriate.;The Council for Science and Society aims to promote the study of, and research into, the social effects of science and technology, and to present the results to the public.