April 9, 2009 11:00

Pet Shop Boys decline name-change request from Peta

Animal rights group wanted pop duo to highlight plight of cats and dogs

Pet Shop Boys have declined a request to change their name from animal rights group Peta.

People For The Ethical Treatment Of Animals reportedly requested that the pop duo rename themselves the Rescue Shelter Boys to highlight conditions in pet shops.

According to The Guardian, the letter reads: "Dear Neil and Chris. You have many loyal fans of the Pet Shop Boys here at Peta. We have a request that may at first seem bizarre, but we hope that after considering the following facts, you will understand why we are asking this of you: will you please consider changing your name from the Pet Shop Boys to the Rescue Shelter Boys."

Peta Special Projects Manager Yvonne Taylor goes on to describe the substandard conditions many animals are forced to live in: "Most cats and dogs sold in pet shops are sourced from profit-hungry breeders who may have bred them in cramped, filthy conditions. With an emphasis on quantity rather than quality, unmonitored and genetic defects and personality disorders pass from one generation of puppies and kittens to the next. Many animals end up with abnormalities that result in both heartbreak and high veterinary bills for the unsuspecting people who buy them."

The letter continues: "Most pet shop animals are kept in cages that are far too small for their needs. Exercise is minimal, and they often never leave their cages until the day they are sold. Nocturnal animals are displayed throughout the day under glaring lights. Predators, such as snakes, may be displayed alongside their prey. No screening is done to ensure the suitability of prospective guardians. By agreeing to change your name to the Rescue Shelter Boys, you would help raise awareness about the cruelty involved in the pet trade and encourage your millions of fans to consider giving a home to an abandoned or unwanted animal from an animal shelter. So, what do you say?"

The band responded through their website, petshopboys.co.uk, saying they are "unable to agree (to the request) but nonetheless think it raises an issue worth thinking about".