Recently, a Spanish Ebola patient’s dog was euthanised due to suspicion that he might have been infected with the virus. Health authorities put down mixed-breed pet of Teresa Romero Ramos despite global outcry, which generated thousands of petition signatures and a social media storm. Was it right to euthanise the dog without concrete proof that he had actually contracted the virus?

The focus of this week’s debate is on animal rights and whether fear was enough of a justification to put down an otherwise healthy animal.

These are the statements to be debated:

• “The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” - Mahatma Gandhi

• No living being should be euthanised without first exhausting all other options.

• Animals deserve the same rights as humans do.

Participants will be required to clearly state whether they are ‘for’ or ‘against’ the statement and provide their supporting arguments for the same.

If you would like to participate, send us a request at readers@gulfnews.com