OVMA Handbooks
Issue link: https://publications.ovma.org/i/571762
OVMA 420 Bronte Street South, Suite 205, Milton, Ontario L9T 0H9 T. 905.875.0756 or 1.800.670.1702 (toll-free) F. 905.875.0958 or 1.877.482.5941 (toll-free) info@ovma.org www.ovma.org OVMA Position Statement – Use of Animals in Entertainment and Recreation Position The Ontario Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) accepts the use of animals in entertainment and recreation only when the animals' physical, social, and behavioural needs are being met. OVMA opposes activities, contests, or events that have a high probability of causing injury, distress, or illness. Background 1) OVMA recognizes that concerns surrounding the use of animals for the purposes of entertainment and recreation may arise if the physical, social, or behavioural needs of animals are not being met (1-5). a. Examples of animal use for entertainment and recreation include, but are not limited to, zoos, aquariums and other animal exhibitions; animals used for media purposes, circuses, rodeos; and equestrian and other competitive sporting events involving animals. b. Animals performing, or on display in a traveling or static environment, may receive inadequate attention to their physical, social, and behavioural needs. i. This can occur due to close confinement, lack of exercise and other physical requirements, inability to express natural behaviours, and/or lack of appropriate socialization and mental stimulation. ii. The development of stereotypes is an outcome of such impoverished environments or conditions. 2) In all areas where animals are kept or used, humane and ethical treatment must be paramount, and animals must be portrayed and utilized with respect (1, 6, 7). a. Entertainment and recreational activities should use animals that are appropriately bred, raised, habituated, and trained. b. Animals should not be forced to perform actions or tasks that result in physical or mental distress or discomfort. c. Activities that portray or force animals to perform in ways not characteristic of the species should be discouraged, so as not to harm the animal or mislead the public as to the true nature of the animal. d. Training methods should be based on positive reinforcement, utilizing natural behaviours. 3) OVMA recommends that all animals used for entertainment or recreation receive appropriate veterinary care by suitably experienced veterinarians. A veterinarian should be responsible for overseeing any competitive events where animal injury is possible.