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Scotland plans to ban wild animals in circuses
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Calls for a Scottish ban were prompted in 2014 when it emerged that, during winter, circus big cats were being kept in cages of a 'beast wagon' near Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire. (stock photo)
Welfare campaigners 'delighted' by the news
 
Scotland could become the first part of the UK to ban the use of wild animals in circuses. A spokeswoman recently announced the government's intention to outlaw the practice - which came as welcome news for animal welfare campaigners.

According to The Scotsman, the spokeswoman said: "The Scottish Government intends to ban the use of wild animals in circuses. We are currently investigating the best mechanism for introducing legislation on ethical grounds and will make further announcements in due course."

Calls for a Scottish ban were prompted in 2014 when it emerged that, during winter, circus big cats were being kept in cages of a 'beast wagon' near Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire.

A consultation subsequently found 98 per cent of people supported a ban.

Responding to the Scottish government's pledge, the BVA and BVA Scottish branch, said: "As the leading representative body for vets, we have long campaigned on this issue. The welfare needs of non-domesticated, wild animals cannot be met within a travelling circus in terms of housing nor being able to express normal behaviour…

"We are pleased to see the new Scottish government not only identifying opportunities to improve animal health and welfare in Scotland, but taking hold of these opportunities with both hands - and we would urge other UK governments to follow their lead."

The Born Free Foundation said it was "delighted" by the news, but asked for clarification on when the ban would be implemented. Westminster has made a similar pledge, going so far as to publish draft legislation that would have banned the use of wild animals in circuses by December 2015, but the government has yet to make parliamentary time for the issue.

Chris Draper, programmes manager for captive wild animals at Born Free, commented: "We would hate to see Scotland replicate the mistakes and delays that have occurred south of the border, and urge the Scottish government to act swiftly to end the practice once and for all."

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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
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.