The Government of Manitoba has introduced
Bill 19 – The Animal Care Amendment Act, which is expected to pass before the summer. The proposed legislation is intended to strengthen protections for pets, promote responsible care, and enhance accountability across the province.
CKC recently met with Manitoba’s Ministry of Agriculture to ensure our members’ perspectives are reflected. We highlighted the important role responsible CKC member breeders play in supporting canine health and well-being and urged the Ministry to exempt CKC member breeders from licensing requirements for reasons including the following:
- The “one-size-fits-all” approach to licensing does not distinguish responsible CKC member breeders from substandard producers of unregistered dogs.
- Extending licensing requirements to CKC member breeders would create unnecessary duplication of oversight, as these breeders are already required to comply with CKC bylaws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures, Codes of Ethics and Practice, and the requirements of the Animal Pedigree Act, all of which prioritize canine health and well-being.
- Additional licensing fees would impose disproportionate financial burdens on responsible breeders who already invest significantly in health testing, veterinary care, and breed health.
Bill 19 introduces several proposed changes, including:
- Unless exempted by regulation, a person is required to be licensed to sell or transfer ownership of pet animals. Licensing requirements for premises operated as a kennel or for breeding or retailing pets are repealed.
- The standards governing the acceptable treatment of animals are clarified. Regulations concerning animal health and welfare may incorporate codes and standards published by recognized animal care and welfare organizations.
- The procedure for court orders that restrict the number of animals that a person may own, and the appeal of an order is clarified. Types of orders that the court may make are expanded.
- The maximum fines that may be imposed for offences under the Act are increased from $10,000 to $20,000 for a first offence and from $20,000 to $100,000 for a subsequent offence. Terms of imprisonment are also increased.
If passed, the next phase will involve developing detailed regulations later this year. CKC will continue its collaborative work with the government to help shape a balanced framework that supports canine health and well-being while recognizing and supporting responsible CKC member breeders.
If you have any questions or would like to share your perspective, please contact us at
[email protected].