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Wild animals could be banned from circuses in Scotland
 
Tigers and other wild animals could be banned from travelling circuses in Scotland
Tigers and other wild animals could be banned from travelling circuses in Scotland

Consultation underway ahead of decision by Scottish Government

A consultation is underway in Scotland on whether to ban wild animals in travelling circuses.

The ban could be introduced, aimed at protecting the welfare of wild animals.

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said: “I think it’s important to make it clear that there are no travelling circuses with wild animals presently based in Scotland.

"This particular issue is one which is attracting concern elsewhere and is being considered in other areas of the UK. It is therefore prudent that we also consider the implications for Scotland.

“The health and wellbeing of these animals is clearly something which is close to many people’s hearts and is one of the main reasons why we are seeking views in this consultation.

"The following ethical considerations are explored in this consultation; respect for wild animals, the travelling environment and the ethical cost versus any potential benefit.

“I understand that circuses bring joy to a number of people, however, we must weight this up with the welfare of the animals - something that I and the Scottish Government take extremely seriously.

"We need to gain a clearer understanding of the picture in Scotland and this consultation will allow us to gain the evidence needed before pressing ahead with any decision.”

The consultation is open until April 16. Visit: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2014/01/5291

 

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS pays tribute to well-loved equine vet

The RCVS and the Riding Establishments Subcommittee has paid tribute to well-loved veterinary surgeon and riding establishment inspector, Rebecca Hamilton-Fletcher MRCVS.

Linda Belton MRCVS, RCVS President, said: "I, along with my colleagues on the RESC, RCVS Council, RCVS Standards Committee, as well as RCVS staff, was very saddened to hear of the sudden death of Rebecca, or Becca as we knew her, last week.

"She was a true advocate for equine welfare and in her many years on the RESC worked to continually improve the quality and consistency of riding establishment inspections, all in the interests of enhanced horse welfare and rider safety."