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Wales considers options for wild animal circus ban
‘Although there are no circuses based in Wales, they do visit and it is important the welfare needs of their animals are not overlooked.'
Campaigners welcome the move as “momentous” 

Welsh cabinet secretary Lesley Griffiths has confirmed she is “exploring opportunities” to bring forward a ban on wild animals in circuses.

Responding to the news yesterday (14 February), the RSPCA Cymru said it was “a momentous day for animals”. The charity believes circuses are inappropriate environments for wild animals, owing to their transient nature, cramped conditions and forced training.

In December last year, Scotland became the first country in the UK to pass a ban on wild animals in circuses. The Irish Government also introduced a ban which came into effect last month.

Ms Griffiths said in a statement: ‘Although there are no circuses based in Wales, they do visit and it is important the welfare needs of their animals are not overlooked. I am exploring opportunities to bring forward legislation to ban the use of wild animals in circuses in Wales.

‘I intend to learn from the recent scrutiny of the Wild Animals in Travelling Circuses (Scotland) Act 2018, particularly discussion of ethical and welfare arguments for a ban.’

RSPCA Cymru responded in a statement: “This ban makes a huge statement about how highly animal welfare is regarded in Wales, and how this country wants to treat our fellow living creatures. RSPCA Cymru will now work closely with the Welsh Government and all stakeholders to ensure this ban becomes a reality as soon as possible.”
 
The Welsh Government previously announced plans to bring in a licensing scheme for mobile animal exhibits (MAEs), which include travelling falconry and hawking displays, reindeer at Christmas events and mobile petting zoos, as well as travelling circuses.

RSPCA Cymru said it is “positive” that the government is pursuing such a scheme, as animals in MAEs “face unique and challenging lives, and deserve more protection”.

Welsh officials have been asked to explore the options available to ministers and a full consultation will be launched in 2018.

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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.