are the two dalmations who, according to the BBC ' are trained stage dogs who are used to a studio environment.'

The BBC are to be commended for their quick response to my complaint. What a pity it is gobbledegook. 'The dogs are apparently used to a studio environment and have practised extensively.' Okay, I'll buy that. But the point is that when it came to it they hated it and look terrified. Which must mean that the fact that 'they had practised extensively with Anton under supervision from their handlers' did not allow for the fact that on the night the noise, heat and lights would make them fearful.

I rest my case. Do not use animals as props.

Same reply as I had.
Apparently the RSPCA had many complaints about this too. My lab is well trained and a PAT (Pets as Therapy) dog, but used to noise as she is, the noise that night would have been out of her comfort zone.

Why are people complaining about cruelty to the dogs I saw nothing cruel about it. If it was two young children would people complain I wonder? In fact they have had young children on dancing before. I think sometimes people put animals before people. I will await the backlash now.

The young children they've had on the show before were seasoned dancers (despite their lack of years) and used to dancing competitions in front of crowds of people. They also had a say in the matter - they could refuse to take part if they wanted to.

The dogs on the otherhand had no say in the matter at all, and if they were 'trained' then all I can say is they were not trained very well. However, although they were clearly unhappy, and served no real purpose in being there, I wouldn't necessarily go so far as to say they were subjected to cruelty.