Rabbit Advocacy Animal Matters
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'Circus MADNESS' Shocking video shows tigers caged and 'pacing' in tiny cells IN THE UK July 1, 2014 Express.co.uk
The big cats were filmed in their tiny cells at
one of only two British circuses still with performing wild animals. He pointed out that there have been only seven prosecutions of circus trainers in the past 130 years, adding: "I doubt if that’s one per cent of the trainers in Britain in that time" – and asks people not to judge his profession by the actions of individuals. To counter claims that circus training is inherently cruel, Chipperfield has posted a video diary on YouTube showing how he trained the nine-month-old Tsavo and another lion, Assegai, using patience and reward over a long period of time. ADI called on David Cameron to prevent cruelty by honouring the Government's promise to introduce a complete ban on wild animals in circuses. A bill to outlaw wild animals in circuses has been stalled and instead a temporary licensing system with inspections has been introduced. But ADI president, Jan Creamer said its investigations showed that the licensing system cannot safeguard the welfare of circus animals.
She said: “Government inaction is taking its toll
on these animals. The lions and tigers at Peter Jolly’s Circus, and other wild
animals still being made to tour and perform with the last two circuses with
such acts, need our urgent help. "ADI calls on the Prime Minister to honour his
promise and bring in a ban on wild animals in circuses without delay.” A spokesman for Peter Jolly's Circus, which is currently in Middlewich, Cheshire, rejected ADI's claims of cruelty. He said: "Under the licensing system Defra inspects us seven times a year, with some of the visits unannounced. "We were inspected by an inspector and a vet only last week without any problems. "We have to stick to really strict guidelines which include enrichment and exercise. We have passed every single time. "Defra also does stress tests and assesses the animal's physical and mental health. Our animals are absolutely fine
"The film does not show an enclosure and a
swimming pool where the animals can exercise. "We have an open door policy and
anyone is welcome to come have a look for themselves." “As we work towards a ban we have a strict system in place to ensure the welfare of all 23 circus animals in England – this includes announced and unannounced inspections, care plans for every animal, regular veterinary inspections and a retirement plan for each animal.” |