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'Thousands of wild animals kept in UK homes'
lemur
Over 100 lemurs are being kept in private homes in the UK.
RSPCA says the findings are "deeply concerning"
 
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
There are also more than 2,000 wild boar, 412 bison and a score of zebras being kept in private fields.

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."

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.