Singapore bans animal circuses

Singapore bans animal circuses

SINGAPORE (AFP): Singapore has decided to ban circuses from putting on shows involving elephants, tigers and other wild animals from January 2002, the Agri-food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) said on Friday.

"AVA is initiating this restriction on traveling circuses in the interest of public safety and animal welfare," the body said.

AVA said public concern over the welfare of animals in circuses was on the rise. "Reports of abuse and mistreatment of these animals by circus owners and trainers have become more regular.

"The prolonged periods spent by these wild animals in the cages/containers used to transport them may compromise their welfare."

AVA also said accidents resulting in serious injuries and death to trainers and animals have also been increasing. Other countries that have enacted similar bans include Sweden, Israel and India.