April 11, 2019

An Uncertain Future for Animal Cruelty Investigations in Ontario: An Update

A dog trapped in a dumpster.

The OHS reported last month that, with 27 days’ notice, the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) announced it would no longer enforce animal cruelty legislation in Ontario.

Since then, the government asked the OSPCA for an extension to January, 2020 to allow time for new legislation to pass and a new system to be put into place. The OSPCA refused, but did agree to their original June 28 extension offer.

The Ontario government has remained tight-lipped as to their intentions after this date, but has announced it will be surveying municipalities about the current landscape of animal welfare enforcement.

Meanwhile, the OHS has corresponded with the Solicitor General of Ontario and our local Conservative MPP Lisa MacLeod about the necessary requirements for an adequate system in the province to protect animals. Furthermore, we expect to be meeting with Ottawa Police Services and Ottawa By-law and Regulatory Services Branch to coordinate our response and efforts to protect animals in Ottawa once the OSPCA deadline of June 27 hits.

What can you do?

Write your MPP. Let him or her know that you care about the welfare of animals. Let them know that you expect a comprehensive response to crimes against animals in the province.

Bruce Roney

President & CEO