STROUD District Council has adopted a special charter to demonstrate commitment to animal welfare.

The Animal Welfare Charter supports the view that creatures have the right to a life free from cruelty and unnecessary suffering.

It is a documented policy to which individuals or organisations can refer and may also help in enforcement cases.

Under the charter, approved at the recent cabinet meeting, SDC recognises that animals have five basic freedoms.

These are freedom from fear and distress, freedom from hunger or thirst, freedom from pain, injury or disease, freedom to express normal behaviour and freedom from discomfort.

The charter sets out SDC’s legal duties, especially in relation to licensing owners of dangerous wild animals or owners of certain establishments, including pet shops, riding facilities and zoos.

It also details council policy on specific elements of animal welfare.

Notably SDC does not allow hunting, circuses with performing animals, or fairs giving animals as prizes to take place on its property.

SDC says it supports responsible pet ownership and is committed to using the planning system to ensure animals, plants and their habitats are afforded protection in accordance with their status.