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Ban on live animals being given as prizes on CWAC land

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Goldfish and other animals can no longer be given as prizes on council land in Cheshire West and Chester.

The decision also includes a ban on giving away animals as prizes at events that are supported or sponsored by the council.

The decision was taken following complaints received by the council about events organised by third parties on its land.

The authority said some councillors had also received comments from residents calling for a ban on the practice.

The decision brings Cheshire West and Chester Council in line with the RSPCA’s Pets as Prizes campaign, which urges local authorities to prevent live animals being handed over as prizes on their land.

Unlike animals sold at pet shops, animals that are given as prizes are not currently protected by animal welfare legislation.

This means that usual animal welfare standards do not apply to them.

The council’s deputy leader, Cllr Karen Shore said: “Animal ownership is a significant responsibility that requires due consideration and animals should not be acquired as the result of a spur-of-the-moment game.

“New owners should do their research and plan before – not after – acquiring any animal, to ensure they can meet its welfare needs.

“For example, the RSPCA advises that when bringing a fish home for the first time it is important to set the tank up at least two weeks in advance to make sure it is running properly.

“It is not possible for someone who has just won a fish to be adequately prepared.”

Statistics from the RSPCA website show that since 2015 there have been 147 cases reported to the charity of live animals being given as prizes in England.

It is feared, however, many more cases go unreported due to a lack of awareness of animal welfare and existing legislation.

Cheshire West and Chester Council already had a ban on trail hunting on its land (since 2021), as well as using wild animals in circuses (from 2016) and the release of sky lanterns (also from 2016).

 

 

 

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