Traveling circus shows in Britain have gone to the dogs — literally. A new law banning wild animals from traveling with the circus around the country takes effect in 2015, and then only dogs, cats and rabbits will be allowed on board.

The law defines them as “domesticated animals,” United Press International reported. And animal rights groups are applauding.

“There is no place in today’s society for wild animals to be used for our entertainment and we are absolutely delighted,” said Peter Jones, the president of the British Veterinary Association, in the UPI article. “The BVA has strongly supported a ban because we believe the welfare needs on non-domesticated, wild animals cannot be met within the environment of a traveling circus, especially in terms of accommodation and the ability to express normal behavior.”

Two circuses currently operate in Britain, the Daily Mirror reported.

The 20 wild animals that now travel with these two circuses will be given new homes by members of the Born Free Foundation and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

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