Pets as prizes
Animal ownership is a big responsibility, one that should be planned and well thought out, not the result of a spur of the moment event or game.
Between 2015 and 2022, there were 38 cases reported to the RSPCA of live animals being given as prizes in Wales. Of these a majority were goldfish being given at fairgrounds, however other animals including dogs, ducklings and horses were also reported during this period.
Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, it is an offence to give an animal as a prize to anyone under the age of 16, except within the family context. RSPCA Cymru believes that this does not go far enough, and would like to see legislation introduced similar to that within the Animal Health and welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, which states that it is an offence to give an animal as a prize, regardless of age, except within the family context.
As of 2024, all councils in Wales have banned pets as prizes at funfairs and events, however this does not mean the practice cannot continue on private land. RSPCA Cymru are calling on the Welsh Government to introduce an outright ban to prevent the practice from happening on private land across Wales.
Further information regarding the RSPCA's Pets as Prizes campaign can be found in the download section below.