Young Wrexham

Protecting Animals

Animal Welfare

• Animal welfare is very important, and you should always treat animals with respect and kindness
• The UK was one of the first countries in the world to bring in legislation to protect animals
• Causing unnecessary suffering to animals is illegal under the Protection Of Animals Act, and there are serious consequences for the mistreatment of animals
• If you own or look after an animal, you have a duty of care towards them that means it is illegal to harm or neglect them
• This can include anything, from physically or mentally hurting animals, to leaving pets in hot cars in the summer

Caring For Animals

• If you ever come across an injured animal - wild or tame - it is important you contact a relevant organisation or your local vet who will know how to handle the situation
• If they are frightened or hurt, animals may try to defend themselves, so be careful when approaching them. Remember that wild animals are not used to human contact, and you should be particularly wary
• Animals require specialist care, and there are many centres around Wales that look after sick or abandoned animals
• These centres often need volunteer help, and if you want to get involved try contacting your local animal sanctuary. Centres generally welcome volunteers, but some may have age restrictions in place