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Vets Welcome Positive Political Response To Better Circus Animal Welfare

Author: BVA
Posted: Friday 26th March, 2010. 00:00:00

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed the provisional decision by Defra Minister Jim Fitzpatrick MP to ban the use of wild animals in travelling circuses in England.

Responding to the initial consultation results that showed more than 94% of more than 10,500 respondents agreed with a complete ban, Mr Fitzpatrick said he was minded to pursue the ban.

The BVA responded on behalf of the veterinary profession calling for the complete ban.

Commenting, Professor Bill Reilly, President of the BVA, said:

“We are delighted that the Minister has responded so positively to the overwhelming call for a complete ban on the use of wild animals in travelling circuses.

“Although it only affects a small number of animals at present the BVA’s Ethics and Welfare Group felt that their needs and the needs of future animals could not be adequately met by the environmental conditions of a travelling circus.

“If the Government goes ahead with a ban it is vital that each animal is individually assessed so that appropriate action can be taken. This could include re-homing to a zoo or sanctuary, living out the rest of its life with existing owners, or other options that can meet its needs.”

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