Italy bans ALL animals in circuses: Rome vows to take THOUSANDS out of spectacles

GETTY Italy has banned all wild animals in circuses

Rules on how Italy will implement phasing out all animals used in circuses will be set out within one year by a Ministerial decree. There are 100 circuses in Italy and an average of 2,000 animals forced to perform in shows across the mediterranean nation. Animal Defenders International (ADI), a leading non-profit animal welfare organisation, has hailed the decision as a major breakthrough. Jan Creamer, ADI President, said: “Travelling from place to place, week after week, using temporary collapsible cages and pens, circuses simply cannot provide for the needs of the animals.

"Through ADI’s undercover investigations we have shown the violence and abuse that is used to force these animals to obey and perform tricks. We applaud Italy and urge countries like the UK and the USA to follow this example and end this cruelty.” In England, the Government has stated that it remains committed to a ban but has given no indication as to when the legislation, drafted and scrutinised back in 2013, will be introduced. The British Veterinary Association said: “The welfare needs of non-domesticated, wild animals cannot be met within a travelling circus - in terms of housing or being able to express normal behaviour.” Wales and Scotland are also in talks to ban animals in circuses.

GETTY Animal rights campaigners have protested against animals in circuses

Animals in captivity Fri, August 5, 2016 Throughout the world animals are still being used for testing and performing in circuses. We highlight the problem with an insight into the conditions and animals involved. Play slideshow AFP/Getty Images 1 of 21 A beluga whale sprays water at visitors