Animal rights organizations have once again launched a campaign against a long-standing, legal event scheduled to take place at Woodbank Garden Centre on Wednesday, June 11th, 2025. Despite meeting all regulatory and welfare standards and operating within the law, the event has faced criticism from organizations such as the Animal Protection Agency (APA), World Animal Protection, and Freedom for Animals.
The event in question is a breeders’ meet organized by the International Herpetological Society (IHS), where members are permitted to sell surplus captive-bred reptiles and amphibians. This event, which has been held for many years, has faced renewed scrutiny and opposition from animal activist groups.
However, according to the IHS and the venue organizers, these activist groups are engaging in what they describe as “bully tactics.” This is a strategy that these organizations have been using for decades in attempts to shut down legal animal-related events.
The IHS strongly defends the legality and ethics of the event, stating that it is in full compliance with recent amendments to the Animal Welfare Act. These amendments clearly confirm that members are permitted to sell surplus stock at such meets. The organization also emphasizes that these events have never had any animal welfare issues and that they always ensure high welfare standards.
Furthermore, every breeders’ meet is attended by two independent veterinarians, as well as representatives from the local council, DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs), and other regulatory bodies. It is important to note that no wild-caught animals are permitted at these events; only captive-bred species may be sold. Additionally, animals are housed in transport containers for short-term movement only, with continuous monitoring by vets to ensure welfare requirements are met at all times.
In response to recent concerns, Woodbank Garden Centre has confirmed that the breeders’ event is a hired function and is entirely separate from its pet shop operations. A meeting with the local council in late May resulted in no concerns over licensing or animal welfare. A few procedural recommendations were made and promptly implemented, according to the organizers.
One of the event’s organizers stated, “This latest attack is part of a broader strategy by activist groups whose ultimate goal is to end all forms of animal captivity, including regulated events, pet ownership, and responsible breeding.” The organizers believe that these organizations generate significant revenue through emotional campaigns, often misleading the public to support their anti-captivity agenda.
Critics argue that while such groups claim to protect animals, their long-term objective may be the complete removal of animals from private care and regulated exhibition. This approach is seen as extreme and counterproductive by many.
As of now, the breeders’ meet at Woodbank Garden Centre remains fully compliant with the law and continues to operate with transparency and oversight. Organizers say they will not be deterred by what they view as coordinated misinformation campaigns aimed at shutting down legal and responsible animal-related activities.
This news story is distributed by Pressat, the UK’s leading news distribution service.