Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity has directly campaigned to the French government regarding the alleged use of animals being used as bait for sharking fishing.

Clarissa Baldwin, Chief Executive comments: “If this is true, this is a totally abhorrent and barbaric practice. Most countries and societies across the world share a code of conduct that treats animals, such as dogs, as sentient beings and valuable companions to people. There is therefore no excuse for accepting cruel practices that cause untold pain and suffering.

We have urged the French government to take action and put an end to this truly appalling practice.”