The RSPCA has relaunched its #NoFunAtTheFair campaign, calling for an end to the outdated practice of giving pets away as prizes. This initiative primarily targets the distribution of goldfish at fairs.
With the support of the public, the RSPCA aims to raise awareness and push local authorities across England to take action. The goal is to protect animals that often suffer when given away in such settings.
The Campaign’s Core Message
The RSPCA’s core message focuses on banning the practice of giving pets as prizes, which is deemed outdated and harmful. This practice mainly involves goldfish being handed out at fairs, causing significant distress and potential harm to the animals.
The charity is encouraging its supporters to advocate for change by contacting their local councils. The aim is to establish local bans and increase awareness about the issue, ultimately protecting animals from such inhumane treatment.
Current Legal Landscape
In England, more than 70 councils have banned the practice of giving away pets as prizes. However, the RSPCA is pushing for more councils to follow suit and enact restrictions on this harmful activity.
In Wales, all 22 local authorities have already restricted the giving away of pets on land under their control. However, on privately-owned land, the practice remains legal, similar to the situation in England. This highlights the need for comprehensive national legislation.
Public Support for the Ban
A Savanta survey conducted in June found broad support for the RSPCA’s campaign across the North of England. In Yorkshire and the Humber, 92% of respondents were shocked to learn that pets can still legally be given away as prizes.
The survey revealed that in Yorkshire and the Humber, 88% of participants believe keeping goldfish in plastic bags constitutes animal cruelty. This sentiment is shared by 83% in the North West and 81% in the North East.
The concept of local governments in England and Wales banning the giving away of pets as prizes on council-owned land garnered strong support. In the North East, 85% of residents agreed, followed by 81% in Yorkshire and the Humber and 77% in the North West.
Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
RSPCA Campaigns Officer Christa Harwood emphasises the importance of spreading the campaign’s message, especially during the summer holidays when fairs and shows are more frequent. She believes that public support can drive local councils to adopt the necessary changes.
Harwood states, “Now we are in the summer holidays and fairs and shows become more commonplace, we’re urging our supporters to help us spread the message that this outdated practice needs to be placed well and firmly into the history books.”
Supporting Statistics
According to the Savanta survey, public support for banning the practice is undeniable. The survey found that 91% of respondents were shocked to discover that giving pets as prizes is still legal.
Additionally, 79% of respondents expressed a desire for local governments to ban the giving away of pets as prizes on their land. These statistics illustrate the strong public backing for the RSPCA’s campaign and the urgency of implementing these changes.
Call to Action
The RSPCA urges the public to sign their action and contact local councillors to express support for the ban. Raising awareness on social media and through community networks is also crucial.
By joining forces, supporters can amplify their voices and push for local councils to adopt the motion for change. The collective effort is essential in ensuring that the practice is not only restricted but ultimately eradicated.
The RSPCA’s #NoFunAtTheFair campaign is a crucial step towards ending the inhumane practice of giving pets as prizes. With strong public support and active advocacy, significant progress can be made.
The combined efforts of individuals and local authorities can lead to meaningful changes, ultimately ensuring better protection for animals across the UK.