"What really brings children with certain disabilities alive is to be able to hold the animals and stroke them, " Mr Laister said.

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It also calls for common-sense reforms, such as placing a hold on suspect animals until test results are cleared.

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He now expects he will have to hold the new animals for 12 to 18 months and hope for higher prices.

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Anyone responsible for a travelling circus that uses wild animals in a performance will need to hold a valid licence, meet welfare standards and have a retirement plan for each animal.

BBC: Wild animals to be banned from circuses