Hon. Mitch Murphy, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry announced that the Companion Animal Protection Act and its regulations came into effect on June 8th. The Act was passed during the fall 2001 sitting of the Legislative Assembly but was awaiting development of the regulations before coming into force.
The Act has two main components, to prevent abuse of companion animals and to provide for the licensing and inspection of businesses that sell or display companion animals. Under the Act, companion animals includes dogs, cats, reptiles, rabbits, rodents and birds. Livestock and wildlife are already covered under existing provincial legislation.
"The new legislation is in response to concerns raised by the Prince Edward Island Humane Society and the public to protect pets from abuse," said Hon. Mitch Murphy, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry. "The humane care and treatment of all animals is a concern shared by everyone."
The Companion Animal Protection Act will allow animal control officers with the Humane Society and inspectors with the Department of Agriculture and Forestry to investigate complaints involving abuse of companion animals. Charges under the Act could result in a fine of up to $5,000, seizure of the animals and, in the case of second offence, a life-time ban on owning a companion animal.
The licensing and inspection of pet stores will be conducted by inspectors with the Department.
"We welcome this long-awaited legislation," said Heather Irving, Executive Director of the PEI Humane Society. "The Companion Animal Protection Act will give our Society clear and balanced guidelines to use in our investigations. We look forward to working with the Department of Agriculture and Forestry and all Islanders who value the humane care and treatment of companion animals."
In 2001, the Humane Society investigated 392 suspected cases of animal cruelty, abuse, neglect or abandonment. Humane Society Animal Protection Officers are able to resolve most investigations by providing owners with information and by educating them about good pet care and management. The majority of owners co-operate and comply with the Society's suggestions to ensure their pets are safe, healthy and happy. The Companion Animal Protection Act will be a tool to use for the small minority of pet owners who don't meet adequate standards of care.