Local authorities are responsible for licensing zoos, pet shops, and other facilities that keep wild animals. Performing animals (in circuses, etc) are registered by county councils. You can find the right local authority to contact at www.gov.uk/find-local-council. Search using the facility’s postcode or town.
It is important the facility hears directly from concerned customers and visitors. Many places claim they never receive complaints, so please make your concerns known.
You can find the contact details for your UK parliamentary representative at www.writetothem.com
Tell them about your experience and concerns. Sending them accompanying images may also help.
Write a review on a website such as Trip Advisor. This is a great source of information and useful for spreading the word about captive wild animals at facilities and locations around the world.
Images © George Logan
Effective emails or letters are short and concise. Around 300 words should be adequate to relay your comments and concerns. Be specific about why you are writing and what concerns you. Did you visit the facility with your family or friends? Did you pay an entry fee or buy a ticket? If you did, you have the right to raise your concerns about the welfare of the wild animals you encountered.
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