We, the undersigned, call on BCP Council to implement a formal policy prohibiting the exhibition of live animals for entertainment, promotion, or display on all Council-owned land and at any Council-funded events.

Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole are world-class coastal destinations known for their natural beauty and forward-thinking communities. However, the continued use of live animals as "attractions" in our public spaces, such as the Bournemouth Goats used in public events, and donkeys and reindeer on ‘display’ at Christmas fairs, is a practice that does not align with the values of our residents or the latest scientific understanding of animal sentience.

As concerned residents, we believe that BCP should be a leader in animal welfare. We are asking for this change based on these key pillars:

• Animal Welfare and Distress: Public exhibitions are inherently stressful for animals. Loud crowds, transport in cramped trailers, handling to and from the event displays, bright lights, and the inability to retreat to a natural habitat cause measurable physiological stress.
• Public Safety and Health: Live animal displays in busy urban areas pose unnecessary risks. Animals can react unpredictably to noise or sudden movements, potentially leading to injuries. Furthermore, close contact increases the risk of zoonotic disease transmission.
• A Growing Precedent: Dozens of local authorities across the UK have already updated their policies to prohibit animal acts on Council land. BCP has the opportunity to join these progressive councils and show the world that they do care about animals.

As recent evidence, we refer to the footage of the Bournemouth Goats, where they were seen in visibly severe distress on the 13th December 2025. 

Video evidence here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zLWIEbyY1KN6n9VcDPoOzhaNl_eB87bg/view

We urge BCP Council to: Enact a formal ban on the use of all live animals for exhibition, promotion, or entertainment on Council-owned property.

BCP Council: democratic.services@bcpcouncil.gov.uk