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Thousands Petition for Exotics Ban in Ohio
An online campaign to ban exotic pets in Ohio attracts support from nearly 100,000 people.

Following the shooting of 49 exotic animals in Ohio last week after their release from a private zoo, nearly 100,000 people have signed an online petition urging the Governor and other Ohio officials to ban the sale, ownership and harbouring of wild and exotic animals in the US state.

Currently, hundreds of exotic animals are kept as pets in Ohio, which is one of 10 states that does not regulate exotic animal ownership.

The situation reached a head last week when authorities killed 49 animals in the interest of public safety, following their release from Muskingham County Animal Farm, a privately-owned zoo.

Over fifty exotic animals escaped, including eighteen rare Bengal tigers, three mountain lions, six black bears, two grizzly bears and a wolf - of which only one grizzly bear was rescued. A futher three leopards and two monkeys were captured and transported to a zoo.

Their owner, Terry Thompson, is reported to have opened cages and damaged fences before committing suicide. Local police have confirmed that he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

In the wake of the incident, Ohio resident Liz Dumler launched an online campaign at Change.org to urge the Ohio governor John kasich to reconsider regulations on keeping exotic animals.

In less than 24 hours, the campaign had attracted thousands of supporters, leading Stephanie Feldstein, director of organising Change.org to call the support "incredible."

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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.