WIREDGOV

Advice for owners of non-human primates about how to look after their animals is published today in a proposed new Code of Practice.

There are an estimated 1,200 non-human primates kept privately in England.
Defra set up a working group including owners, vets and animal welfare groups in response to concerns that non-human primates were readily available without buyers knowing enough about the animals’ welfare needs.

The Code highlights existing legal requirements for keepers under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and includes practical advice on how to:

• Create a suitable environment for privately held non-human primates;
• Provide a healthy diet;
• Spot signs of stress;
• Protect the animals from pain, suffering, injury and disease.

The code will also help law courts with cases brought before them, and will apply to England only. The deadline for responses is 30 November 2009. Consultation documents are online at: www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/welfare-cop-primates/index.htm

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