Rudolph at the Christmas market: cute festive attraction or damaging reindeer’s health?
AI Summary
Animal charities are raising concerns about the welfare of reindeer used as attractions at UK Christmas markets and other events. These organizations highlight that reindeer, semi-wild animals from Arctic climates, suffer physical and mental distress from being kept in enclosed spaces and transported to warm environments. Common health problems include weight loss, muscle atrophy, and fatigue due to travel, repeated loading/unloading, and unpredictable public interaction. The RSPCA and 21 other animal charities are advocating for an end to the practice of using reindeer for entertainment, citing their specialized needs that are difficult to meet in captivity. Websites offer reindeer for hire at events from £400, with the antlered creatures working stints between two and eight hours long.
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