Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 15th February 2018
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

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.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.