Bill will ban the use of wild animals
The Scottish Government has published its intentions to introduce a wild animals in circuses bill.
The bill will ban the use of wild animals in travelling circuses and put in place enforcement provisions and sanctions for non-compliance with the ban.
Welcoming the news, BVA Scottish Branch President Grace Webster said: “An opportunity to improve animal welfare has been presented and BVA commends the Scottish Government for seizing it.
“This is an issue that BVA has long campaigned on and, while it may not affect a great number of individual animals in the UK, the use of wild animals in travelling circuses is emblematic of the way we treat all animals under human care. The welfare needs of non-domesticated, wild animals cannot be met within a travelling circus.
“If we want to be truly proud of the UK’s reputation for some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world, governments in England, Wales and Northern Ireland must follow Scotland’s precedent and deliver on their long-time promises.”
In addition to banning the use of wild animals in circuses, the Scottish Government has also announced plans to continue their review of pet welfare. This includes consideration of the results of recent consultations on electronic training collars and tail docking of working dogs.
The plans are outlined in 'The Government's Programme for Scotland 2016-2017 which can be found at http://www.gov.scot/Resource/0050/00505210.pdf
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
