RSPCA push for immediate circus animal ban
The RSPCA is urging the government to ban wild animals in travelling circuses in England as soon as possible.
The Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs' (DEFRA) circus licensing scheme was passed in the House of Commons on Tuesday (29 October), which the charity says could mean a delay of up to seven years.
The government had said it would peruse the ban on the use of animals, following a consultation in 2010 that found 94 per cent of the 10,500 analysed responses favoured a ban.
The RSPCA, as well as numerous other animal welfare groups, including Captive Animal's Protection Society, believe the ban is the only way forward.
Gavin Grant, RSPCA chief executive, said: "We were delighted in March when the Government announced a ban would happen. Seven months later, nothing has happened to make the ban a reality.
"Anything short of a full ban is simply unacceptable."
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.
