The issue is of critical importance to the charity for many reasons. Chief among them, the SPCA utilises the property for its two major fundraisers and believes it essential walking space for dog owners whose properties are not large enough to allow their pets to roam.

The plan to build a $500-million hospital over ten acres in the centre of the Gardens was announced by Government at the beginning of this month ? an early disclosure following a media leak.

According to Government and the Bermuda Hospitals Board, the location was considered the most cost effective and most efficient place to build.

An alternate plan, to build on the hospital's present site, was pushed aside because it came with a price tag of $100 million extra and it was anticipated the building would take longer to complete.

Shocked by the decision, SPCA president Heather Kromer urged the charity's members to speak out against the proposal.

"I sent an e-mail to members before the (first public meeting held on the matter by the Bermuda Hospitals Board) encouraging them to attend and sign the petition," she said.

"We use the Gardens for two of our main fundraisers every year ? the Expo/Fun Fair and Paws to the Park Dog Walk. It's also used by people to walk their dogs."

Several puppy training classes are held on the Paget property as well, she added.

"Basically, it's great for the entire community. It supports the whole idea of allowing the community to have an open space where they can spend time with their animals. Having animals chained in a yard doesn't enable them a good quality of life.

"The Botanical Gardens is a place where people can take their pets out, walk them and spend time with them. And what we did through the e-mail to our members, was encourage them to let their voices be heard."

In the e-mail to friends and supporters of the SPCA last week, Mrs. Kromer wrote: "Most of you are aware I'm sure, of the recent announcement by Government of their intention to claim a large portion of the Botanical Gardens to use for the site of Bermuda's proposed new hospital.

"The SPCA is but one group that enjoys the use of the Gardens. We hold our Animal Expo and our Paws to the Park Dog Walk there each year.

"Many dog owners take pleasure in using the beautiful grounds for walking and exercising their dogs; puppies come to the Gardens and learn to socialise and receive training. It is an animal friendly environment.

"The reality is that if the community does not object to this proposal, then we will lose forever a wonderful venue that is enjoyed by so many people.

"Open spaces are becoming scarce and in the interest of retaining what we have so that we can continue to enjoy quality of life on this island, I urge you to object."

She urged residents to attend the public meetings, write to their Members of Parliament and also write to the key decision makers ? Health Minister Patrice Minors, Premier Alex Scott and the Bermuda Hospitals Board.

"Write to the paper and ask the paper to keep a tally and report the number of letters received. See if your employer or church or child's school will get involved. Get kids to write letters. Use the Botanical Gardens more ? ask your employer, or church or child's school to use it.

"Get creative, think outside the box and come up with your own initiatives. Please let your voice be heard if you don't want to lose this sometimes taken-for-granted treasure. It is our only chance."