'Thousands of wild animals kept in UK homes'
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Over 100 lemurs are being kept in private homes in the UK.
Thousands of wild animals, including venomous snakes, lemurs and tigers, are being kept in homes across the UK, new figures have revealed.
More than 100 councils have issued licences to allow people to keep undomesticated animals in the home, according to a freedom of information (FOI) request by the Press Association.
In order to keep animals that are considered to be wild, dangerous or exotic, a licence must be obtained from the local council.
FOI requests were sent to every UK council, of which 363 replied.
Animals being privately kept in the UK include:
- Over 300 venomous snakes, including cobras, rattlesnakes and vipers
- 145 ostriches
- 115 lemurs
- 15 wolves
- 13 tigers
- 10 alligators
- Nine pumas
- Nine crocodiles
- Eight leopards
- Seven cheetahs
- Two lions
A spokesperson for the RSPCA is quoted by the Telegraph as saying: "We are deeply concerned about the number of exotic animals, including dangerous wild animals, now being kept as pets…
"Licences for exotic animals classed as Dangerous Wild Animals - such as cobras, ostriches and caiman crocodiles - are granted by local authorities and the details are also held locally. There is no centrally-held list to determine how many are kept across the country.
"The emphasis of this legislation is on making sure the owner takes reasonable steps to prevent the animal from being a threat to the public, rather than the welfare of the animals concerned."
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.
