September 30, 2010

Stricter cattle rules take effect in Canadian province

Stricter rules have taken effect in Canada's Manitoba that further blocks the shipping and sale of livestock unfit for transport.

The province proclaimed on Monday (Sep 27) its Animal Care Amendment Act, which specifically bans the loading and transportation of animals that aren't fit to transport and those that cannot be moved without "causing suffering."

The amendments also ban stockyards and other such assembly sites from accepting such animals for "commercial trade." The province said the new rules will also protect operators of such commercial sites who report the arrival of unfit animals.

Similarly, the province said, the act also provides for protection from liability for veterinarians who report suspected cases of animal neglect or abuse.

The amendments also expand the authority of animal protection officers, particularly as it relates to their ability to take action to prevent harm or to seize animals considered to be in "abusive or abandoned situations."

"Livestock and companion animals depend on people for their care," provincial Ag Minister Stan Struthers said in a release. "These amendments help to strengthen the laws that ensure appropriate food, shelter and medical attention are part of that care and increase penalties for any mistreatment or neglect."

The act also doubles the fines available for animal care offences to a maximum of US$10,000 from US$5,000 for a first offence, and to a maximum of US$20,000 from US$10,000 for a second or subsequent offence. It also doubles the available jail term for a second offence to a maximum 12 months, up from six.

A person convicted of an Animal Care Act offence could also now be restricted from owning or caring for animals for life, the province said.

The amendments also broaden the licensing regulations which until now have covered dog and cat breeders to also include kennels, retail pet stores and breeders of "all companion animals."

The minister also noted the hiring of three more staff for the province's office of the chief veterinarian, include a companion animal welfare veterinarian, an animal welfare investigator and a licensing coordinator.