On Tuesday, May 29, 2012, CKC Québec Director, Ed Gravely, presented to the Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries, Energy and Natural Resources regarding Government Bill 51 – an act to amend R.S.Q., Chapter P-42 of the Animal Health Protection Act in Québec. Director Graveley has represented the Canadian Kennel Club throughout on-going deliberations as part of the Task Force on Companion Animal Welfare in Québec that provided input prior to the introduction of the Bill on December 5, 2011.

The Bill is intended to better protect the safety and welfare of animals and enact rules and regulations for the safety and welfare of cats and dogs.

These tougher regulations will include the requirement for licences for certain operators and qualifications for licence holders, standards pertaining to euthanasia and limits to the maximum number of cats or dogs that can be kept in one location or by one person. In this move to combat puppy mill operations, the tougher regulations within this bill will also include stiffer penalties and fines for animal cruelty.

Director Graveley indicated that CKC supports the intent of Bill 51 and further expressed a willingness to assist the Government with positive action and legislation that is dog friendly. He also encouraged further consideration of the recommendations made within his presentation.

Please review Director Graveley’s full presentation and Bill 51 for further information.