Dog and Cat Breeder Regulations Introduced into BC Legislature

North Vancouver-Seymour's MLA Jane Thornthwaite introduced a Private Member’s Bill, April 23, specifically targeting puppy and kitty mills that will protect legitimate breeders and future pet owners. The bill know as Standards of Care for Breeders of Companion Animals, outlines specific requirements for dog and cat breeders in B.C. to ensure the welfare of companion animals.

Why this matters:

• This legislation will increase public awareness about the standards of care that dog and cat breeders must adhere to.
• The bill declares that breeders of three or more female dogs or cats capable of reproduction will be required not only to understand, but meet, the standards of care in handling and breeding their animals.
• Operators that fail to comply with the legislation will be subject to punishment under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
• There are currently non-mandatory regulations for breeders. This legislation implements mandatory regulations for animal care.
• According to a 2007 Ipsos Reid survey, 38 per cent of Canadian households have a pet cat while 35 per cent have a dog. This bill will provide a measure of protection to owners by ensuring that their dogs and cats were bred in a healthy and humane manner.

To view video coverage of the introduction of this new bill, please click one of the links below:

• Video 1
• Video 2

North Vancouver-Seymour MLA Jane Thornthwaite is joined by pet owners and their dogs at the Legislative Assembly on April 23 while she speaks about her bill, Standards of Care for Breeders of Companion Animals.

Information and photo courtesy of the BC Government Caucus Communications department.