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.