Mission Statement: “Dedicated to end cruel and inhumane treatment of all Animal species through the effective and workable process of “Legislation supported by Education” and augmented by effective enforcement of meaningful penalties & fines”.

Following are the issues or causes being vigorously pursued, but not limited to this list, which we have consolidated for convenience and reference.  Many Municipal Councils have adopted selected Bylaws and thus reference to actual Bylaws will provide interested parties with complete details.  Further, this list of causes and issues may be perceived as a “checklist” for each level of Government and interested persons to consult and compare to actual existence of such legislation enacted todate. Thus, GOVERNMENT is able to amend and/or adopt proposed legislation.  Thus, YOU may contact the applicable level of Government where failure to adopt legislation has occurred that pro-active steps may be taken to encourage such level of government to act expediently to adopt proposed legislation.  The Council Animal Advocacy (CLAW) have a “Schedule of Submissions” whereby we make a certain number of submissions monthly to certain levels of government, thus, we are prepared to make a submission to support you and/or you are welcome to make a submission, write a letter and so forth, to support us – let us know?

The Council Animal Advocacy (CLAW) have incorporated most issues or causes into three (3) major “Programs”, aptly titled:

 

A.   Project Protection of Animals – primarily devoted to Domestic Animals, Pets, Rodeo venues, Exotic or Wild Animals Schedule “A”

B.   The Wholesome & Humane Program – primarily devoted to Animals raised for Food, Safe & Wholesome foods, Abattoirs, Livestock Transport, Standards for each species of Animal (ie; anti-biotics in animal production, genetically altered foods, Fish Farms, etc.)

C.   Fines & Penalty Program – proposed progressive fines (ie; warning, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th offense fines) and penalties, including community service, impoundment, elec. monitoring, incarceration for corresponding violations to Legislation or Bylaws

The Council Animal Advocacy (CLAW) are seeking adoption of the following laws:

1.    Each Federal, Provincial or State to convene an “all-party” Animal Welfare Committee, with a mandate to solicit or accept proposals, to review, assess, develop amendments or prepare documents for adoption into law.

2.    Each Municipal Council to convene an Animal Welfare Committee, comprised of four (4) Council members whom will elect a Chair, to solicit or accept proposals, to review, assess, develop amendments or prepare documents for adoption into Bylaws.

3.    Each Province or State, to establish a “Regional Municipal” Animal Relations Board/Bylaw Court to adjudicate all Animal issues and/or property issues, violating Municipal Bylaws; to diligently prosecute, expediently resolve means of penalty and unencumbered collection of any fines or execution of any penalty imposed as a result of being guilty, such as adding outstanding fines to property taxes.

4.    Each Federal, Provincial or State government to proclaim all domestic Animals and Animals raised for food, as sentient-beings, capable of fearing and feeling pain, to be removed from being “property”.

5.    Each Federal, Provincial, State or Municipal Government to proclaim former “Pet Owners” as “Companion Animal Guardians” and thus amend all such reference on any document referring to “property or pet ownership.”

6.    Each Provincial, State or Municipal Government to establish the legal age to become a Companion Animal Guardian, to purchase any Pet, to age eighteen (18) years.

7.    Each Federal, Provincial or State Government to proclaim Cats as a “Domestic Animal”.

8.    Each Federal, Provincial, State or Municipal Government to proclaim August as “Homeless Animal Month”.

9.    Each Provincial, State or Municipal Government to control breeding of a Domestic Animal , as follows; Upon the purchase of a Breeder Permit 1 to breed the Animal once (1X) annually, for personal family guardianship; Upon the purchase of a Breeder Permit 2 to breed the Animal up to twice (2X) annually for retail sale, with conditions applying to all breeds, purebred or not.

10. Each Federal, Provincial, State or Municipal Government to make it illegal to operate a “Puppy or Kitten Mill”, and an offence to receive any proceeds from the operation of same.  A “Puppy or Kitten Mill” will be defined as any breeding operation that contravenes conditions included within Breeder Permit 1 or Breeder Permit 2 regulations.

11. Each Municipal Government to prohibit the sale or trade of any Pet at an unlicenced Breeder locale, such as but not limited to flea market, craft fair, show or exhibition.

12. Each Provincial, State or Municipal Government to adopt a mandatory Cat spay or neuter Bylaw, for all outside Cats, attaining 5 months of age.

13. Each Provincial State or Municipal Government to adopt a mandatory identification Bylaw, for dogs and cats, including an ear tattoo, compulsory wearing of a collar and name/phone number tag while outside, as well, the option of having a micro-chip insert.

14. Each Provincial, State or Municipal Government to adopt a mandatory Veterinarian recommended immunization program for Dogs & Cats, by three (3) months of age and renewed annually.

15. Each Municipal Government to review and consider adopting parameters described in The Council Animal Advocacy (CLAW) 12 STEP PLAN, including such features as a cost-sharing venture between Veterinarian, Companion Animal Guardian, Municipal Council & Humane Organization/SPCA to facilitate spay or neuter, identification, initial basic immunization; to proclaim all Shelters as a “no-kill” facility, with the proviso any surrendered Pet, upon being unable to locate the rightful Companion Animal Guardian, the person finding the Pet shall be given first right of adoption; that a “Good Samaritan” law shall supersede any Municipal restrictions imposed concerning numbers of Pets to be in any one residence, including grand fathering provisions where Pets were in place prior to legislation; that in cases of a resident adopting or fostering a Pet where no municipal shelter exists and with the intent to curtail such Animal being killed, as currently common practice, such circumstances shall warrant exclusion from any number of Pet restrictions that may exist.

16. Each Municipal Government to adopt a Basic Care & Handling Bylaw covering Dogs & Cats, including, as applicable, adequate food, potable water, veterinarian care as needed, adequate shelter to protect from all weather conditions, prohibition of keeping a pet in an unventilated space, such as vehicle compartment in hot weather, “unfettered” exercise daily as applicable to breed of Dog, prohibition from placing any chain, rope or other such material or choke collar, directly upon a Dogs neck; definition of neglect and/or abandonment, cause of distress and inhumane behavior such as hitting or in any manner causing pain, suffering, distress upon a Pet; to upon adopting a series of fundamental laws seek accreditation as “cruelty free zones” having demonstrated an awareness as to humane treatment, compassion and pro-active steps to improve the lives and treatment of animals.

a). Temporary chaining or  tethering should not exceed eight (8) hours in a twenty-four hour (24) period

b). Tethers or chains should be a minimum twenty feet (20) in length and one alternative may be to affix to a clothesline

c). Pens must be a minimum 15 feet by 15 feet (225 sq. ft).

d). Dogs generally and Incessant barking Dogs, in particular, are to be brought indoors at night and continued noise may result in the need to find the Dog another more suitable home.

e). Dogs deemed to be “Dangerous” or “Vicious” need special attention, including, “definition of Dangerous or Vicious” and as well, “specific Breeds defined”, as follows:

i). Dangerous or Vicious Dogs means, “A Dog which injures a person or domestic animal; or with a known propensity, tendency or disposition to attack without provocation other domestic animals or humans; or which attacks or aggressively pursues a person or domestic animal; or any Dog owned or harbored primarily or in part, for the purpose of Dog fighting or any Dog trained for Dog fighting.

ii). For purposes of clarification, the following list but not limited to this list, constitutes a Dog that has or may have a propensity to be “Dangerous” or “Vicious” (Refer to Fine & Penalty Program www.thecouncilclaw.ca/finespenalty’s.htm for additional license fees or fines/penalties for offenses), as follows: “Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Doberman, Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, Pit Bull, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Bull Mastiff, Jack Russell Terrier and Presa Canairo, including any Dog of mixed breeding which includes any of the aforementioned breeds

iii). In addition to specified “tethering and confinement” processes, additional considerations must be afforded to Dogs classified as “Dangerous” or “Vicious”, as follows:  Dogs while on ‘private property’ whereby persons, other than the immediate family whom either reside or are part of a “socialized” family group, are permitted upon such private property, the Dog or Dogs must be muzzled and/or kept in a secure place, such as pen enclosure or separate secure room, that is properly secured, locked, that a person has no access to, including if left in a yard while a Companion Animal Guardian or responsible and accountable person is not present, such Dog or Dogs must be in a secure, locked enclosure, that the public has no access to and the Dog cannot possibly escape from.  In addition, if the Dog is known to be “Dangerous” or “Vicious”, that while such persons may be away from the private property for any duration, the Dog must be muzzled.

NOTE: While we would not normally like to see ‘breed specific” laws, and we recognize each Animal of a “species” may not be currently dangerous or vicious and presumably many anecdotal testimonies would be forthcoming about “how good the Dog is with children, other Animals, etc.,”,  just as after attacks, testimonies normally exclaim “he/she never was aggressive, never attacked or bit anyone before”.  So, we are inclined to err in favor of caution and thus move to classify certain Dogs.

NOTE: Dogs are a “social Animal” and thus must not be deprived of  “socialization”, including the opportunity to socialize with Companion Animal Guardians and other Family members, as well, other “Humans” and “Companion Animals, such as other Dogs or Cats”, to exercise “unfettered” which can be done in “leash-free” areas in each community, providing the Dog is “under control” and that precautions are taken, such as wearing a muzzle.

NOTE: We recommend consideration be extended to make “Basic Obedience Training” mandatory prior to any person obtaining a Dog, as well, a mandatory “Companion Animal Guardian questionnaire”  to be completed by all potential Companion Animal Guardians.  Federal, Provincial, State or Municipalities may be inclined to develop their own “questionnaire” but for starters and consistency, we refer viewers and law makers to the informative brochure titled. “Responsible Pet Guardianship”, published by Doris Day Animal League (www.ddal.org)) and MSPCA (www.mspca.org) and reprinted by In Defense of Animals (www.idausa.org) plus the supplementary brochure “They are NOT our property” and “We are NOT their owners” published by In Defense of Animals, to gain insight to needed content for questionnaires.

17. Each Municipal Government to adopt a Pet Establishment Bylaw as initiated at the District of North Vancouver, B.C., Canada

18. Each Provincial, State or Municipal Government to adopt a “Vicious Dog” law, (incorporating new passed B.C. Provincial Legislation governing Dangerous Dogs) restricting public access to potentially dangerous Dogs or ones with a disposition to be unpredictable or having a propensity to be vicious, whom have or may unprovoked attack another Animal or Human, that at all time, outside their home property, such Animal will wear a muzzle, be on a leash

19. Each Provincial, State or Municipal Government to adopt a law restricting Dogs to a Companion Animal Guardians property, and to venture into public only upon a leash, except in authorized “off-leash” areas.

20. Each Municipal Government to designate at least one off-leash area per community, whereby a person may only have up to three (3) Dogs in their possession and only two (2) off-leash at one time, providing the Dog (s) are under control and further that such person in control be over the age of eighteen (18) years, that any excrement is to be removed immediately

21. Each province, State or Municipal Government to adopt an Anti-Noise Pollution Law, that in addition to various nuisance crimes, including unnecessary loud, disturbing, stressful and unhealthy noise, such as prohibition of such noise from a Boom Box Stereo from vehicle/real property, unattended security alarms,  propane canons, leaf blowers and so forth, as covered under the proposed Anti-Noise Pollution Program, to include incessantly noisy Dogs whose barking may cause disturbance to one or more individuals.

22. Each Federal, Provincial or State Government to adopt standards, policies and proposals put forth in the Wholesome & Humane Program, that standards contained in the voluntary “Codes of Practice” that are superior to such conditions, shall supersede, that in either event, standards shall be adopted into law as ‘regulations’ to be given meaning and effect with the agreement ‘voluntary’ aspects carry no credibility and are redundant at law and in practice.  Some standards and conditions include but are not limited to:

a.) Five Freedoms mandatory

b.) No ruminants are to be fed to ruminants

c.) Inhumane “Factory Farming” practices to be abolished, including but not limited to, battery hen cages (all chicken nest are to be a minimum 75 sq. in., with free run and/or free range only); pig farrowing crates, veal crates, cutting off chicken beaks, procedures without anesthetics, no electric prods,

d.) All abattoirs to be operated meeting Federal inspection standards, enhanced sensitivity training compulsory, immediate stun/kill procedures,

e.) All livestock trailers to be lined in winter, heated, strict adherence to capacity standards, reduced travel time maximums, crowd gates and mandatory ramps on all vehicles/trailers, all ‘downers’ to be killed humanely upon the trailer, use of Independent Veterinarians

f.) Anti-biotics and other drugs are only to be used for Veterinary purposes, no growth hormones or other drugs used in production.

g.) A moratorium to be placed upon Fish Farms with existing “open net” Fish Farms to be relocated inland, with proviso all future Fish Farms are to be located inland within self-contained facilities.

h.) All genetically altered foods are to be labeled to afford Consumers the choice to purchase or not and to be informed about that which they are about to eat; no Foods are to be patented and/or in any manner copyrighted having the effect of creating a monopoly of ownership of foods

i.) Pet Foods are not to contain any ‘offensive’ product and as may be further defined by our Pet Food Regulations, which govern content of foods for Adult Dogs & Cats.

j.) Federal, Provincial & State Governments are to adopt laws that will recognize Animals raised for Food and Domestic Animals as sentient-beings, capable of fearing and feeling pain; such Animals will be removed from being “property”; Animals will be treated humanely and afforded respect and dignity, from birth to death; such Animals will be fully covered, particularly Animals raised for Food, under provisions of Federal & Provincial legislation, not excluded “due to normally accepted farm management practices”, which in essence embrace “Factory Farming” methods & practices; that “cruelty” shall be an independent crime not dependent upon supporting claims as being ‘willful, intentional’; that persons guilty of an offense shall be prohibited from ownership of an Animal for life; that jail terms up to five (5) years will apply; that “no maximum” amount upon fines; Federal, Provincial and State legislation is to be harmonized, recognizing where an existing law is superior to proposed legislation such law shall supersede, such as currently found in the B.C. Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act, “cruelty” stands on its own merits.

23.  Federal, Provincial, State and Municipal Governments to adopt a law   prohibiting inhumane venues of calf-roping, steer wrestling, chuckwagon races, wild-horse racing & wild-cow milking at a Rodeo.(Refer Gallery of Horrors).

24.  Each Federal, Provincial, State or Municipal government to adopt a”Wild and Exotic Animal Bylaw”designed to “Prohibit the ownership/possession, breeding, sale, trade or exhibition of wild or exotic Animals,(ie; mammals, reptiles, amphibians, etc.”), as included but not limited to those defined upon Schedule “A”.

25.  Each Federal, Provincial, State or Municipal government to adopt an “Animal Performance Bylaw”(similar to the District of North Vancouver Bylaw), “No person may conduct, operate or carry on a Performance in which an Animal performs, fights or participates for the amusement or entertainment of an audience; which exploits an Animal such that it is being used or treated in an inhumane manner for profit or advantage; that may cause cruelty to an Animal respecting a Performance; for the purpose of this Bylaw an “Animal” means a mammal, bird, reptile or amphibian, either wild, exotic or domestic, including but not limited to those specified upon Schedule “A”; and a Performance shall include but not be limited to a “Circus, Public Show, Exhibition, Carnival, Retail Mall Presentation, Traveling Petting Zoo, Dog Race, Pony Ride or any other performance where a wild or exotic Animal appears”; recognized exceptions to this Bylaw include but are not limited to “Pet Shows (ie; Dog, Cat, Breeder Show), Horse Show, Agriculture Fair, and should a Business warrant licensing, whom meets established standards, a permit may be granted.

26.  Each Federal, Provincial, State or Municipal Government to adopt laws that will prohibit:

a).  use of leg-hold traps; use of all underwater traps to eliminate any possibility of any Animal caught, from drowning; that Trappers will check all traps on a ½ hourly basis, to release ‘unintended’ captured Animals & prevent panic and likelihood of gnawing off ones limb, to starve or be attacked by a predator; these cautious steps are intended to improve humaneness of a cruel act but should a Trapper fail to abide by these measures, their privilege of Trapping that evokes this obvious cruelty, should be met with a lifetime prohibition from trapping.  NOTE: It needs to be recognized that cruelty in the name of making money, at any cost, is perceived repugnant to most in society, that the wearing of Furs is seen as an act by unaware and/or indifferent people and while some argue in favor, which is folly but nonetheless during the interim period before wearing Fur is abolished, the act of capture or in this example trapping, is deemed to be intolerable and thus unacceptable in its present form of cruel application, so, it is in this context we ask for the aforementioned prohibition and standards, to govern how trapping is done.

b).  inhumane practice of unleashed Dogs in the hunting of any species

c).  Wolf culls

d).  the killing of foals born at PMU Farms (women are encouraged to substitute synthetic products to replace Premarin, as well, Pharmacists and Doctors are recommended to not prescribe or fill prescriptions with Premarin where a synthetic product is available.

e). the killing, capture, trade, confinement of Whales or Dolphins

f). Fox hunting

g). hunting wild animals for amusement, sport, trophies, including but not limited to the repugnant practice of Grizzly Bear Hunts, wild Sheep hunts and others.

h). Drift net Fishing

i). Whale hunts

j). Seal hunts

k). use of animals in any testing, vivisection or dissection upon any species; to use alternative Computer models and more advanced and acceptable human testing; use of Animals in any products

27. Each Federal, Provincial & State Government to adopt a harmonized “Endangered Species Act” that will recognize animals in harm of extinction and their habitats, as defined by a duly recognized “independent” Scientific Panel, with valuable input from Animal Welfare organizations, with the government not exercising any so-called ‘veto’ power over selections.

28. Municipal Government to adopt a law making it mandatory to spay or neuter a Ferret prior to sale

29. Provincial, State and Municipal Governments to adopt a law making it permissible to:

a). carry a small pet upon Public Transport, possibly restricted to a carrying cage (guide Dogs excluded), with proviso Companion Animal Guardians will be cooperative to other passengers whom may express fears or health concerns, that may see the Companion Animal Guardian accept a set elsewhere upon transport.

b). permit a Pet, such as Dog, Cat, Bird, Fish upon Rental accommodation; total damage deposit to be one (1) months rent, with Companion Animal Guardians subject to Municipal Bylaws, as aforementioned pertaining to care & handling, noise and such and Rental Accommodation Bylaws restricting number of Pets, noise infractions, accountability to remedy any damages caused.

This partial list when viewed in context and from the impartial perspective as to what should exist, describes too many deficiencies, we, as a Country regrettably must accept shame for, as a result of inattention by our leaders whom may be perceived as negligent, maybe derelict of duties in not accepting responsible and compassionate stewardship for the Animals unable to speak for themselves,

30. 12 STEP PLAN

Where the environment exists by residents banding together to address inhumane practices, eliminate ‘unwanted litters’ and generally display acts of compassion toward Pets, The Council Animal Advocacy (CLAW) has suggested residents commence a COST-SHARING PROGRAM which can be implemented for any duration deemed feasible to attain results.  Whereas, the Municipality, Veterinarians, Companion Animal Guardian and/or to include a local Humane Organization/SPCA in a scheme to share equally the cost of a spay or neuter, immunization, tattoo identification, to bring breeding under control.  This is the first step in the 12 Step Plan.

Additional steps include:

2. To adopt a mandatory spay or neuter bylaw;

3. To adopt a mandatory identification tattoo & collar tag bylaw;

4. To adopt a mandatory Breeder permit bylaw;

5. To adopt a basic care & handling bylaw;

6. To adopt a Pet Establishment bylaw; including prohibition of selling “live Animals” at other Retail venues, such as but not limited to a “Flea Market”

7. To  proclaim Cats as a Domestic Animal (Provincial responsibility, to permit regulating Cats, such as licensing)

8. To adopt Companion Animal Guardian designations;

9. To adopt a progressive Fine & Penalty Program (Fines and penalties);

10. To prohibit operation of ‘puppy & kitten mills” restricting breeding to once or twice per year, per Breeder Permit I or II;

11. To establish a ‘regional’ bylaw Court (Provincial responsibility);

12. To convene an Animal Welfare Committee (Federal, provincial & Municipal councils);

NOTE:

These basic steps are commenced within a framework which will see operation of “no-kill shelter”, accreditation as “cruelty free zones’ whereby a foundation of bylaws and other steps in the 12 STEP PLAN are instituted which working together, residents become a part of the solution and for example, we find a co-ordinate process to end the killing of healthy & adoptable Companion Animals, which is a marked departure from today whereby we find most Municipal Councils, most Veterinarians, the SPCA and many Companion Animal Guardians a major part of the problem.  Finally, for PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENTS to amend RESIDENTIAL TENANCY ACTS to permit small pets in rental accommodation that will reduce the numbers of animals being surrendered to pounds/shelters.

ANIMAL RELATIONS PROGRAM

SECTION 31

This “program” augments and/or replaces sections of our 12 STEP PLAN by setting forth a comprehensive approach to be followed, in ‘consolidated format’.  Similarly can be used as a ‘checklist” for Municipalities to compare progress and/or status in comparison to other progressive Municipalities, by identifying steps needed to be taken to meet acceptable ‘community standards and expectations’.

Introduction

Between the period 1988 to 1999 the ten (10) British Colombian Vancouver Regional Branch SPCA killed 67,211 Cats & 16,237 Dogs, healthy, adoptable pets whose only crime was being born unwanted.  How many hundreds of thousands more were killed across Canada let alone around North America????  This practice of killing unwanted ‘surplus’ healthy & adoptable companion Animals is the manifestation of “indifference” and an equally shared blame attributed to apathetic people, devoid of compassion and caring, whom through their lack of responsiveness condone and indeed seem to perpetuate killing as their solution.

Causes of problems

1. “Irresponsible” Companion Animal Guardians, whom fail to have the Animal spayed or neutered, identification (tattoo and/or micro-chip)

2. Mayor & Municipal Councilors whom fail to address the problem, its cause or solution by failing to adopt a mandatory spay or neuter, identification, Breeder Permit Bylaw

3. Media generally, whom fails to make resident/taxpayers aware of the issues, solutions proposed, interviews with Mayors & Councilors to identify whom is “indifferent” and/or “responsive”

4.SPCA whom claim to “Speak for Animals unable to speak for themselves”, whereas in fact, this is folly, as they presumably “kill the healthy & adoptable Animals”, fail to be pro-active toward lobbying Municipal Councils and indeed Provincial Governments, to adopt legislation needed to remedy the problem but more-so its ‘causes’;

Objectives

First and foremost to “stop the senseless killing of “our” healthy and adoptable Companion Animals.  Second, to demand “offenders” whom have perpetuated the “killing” to adopt a fundamentally simple new philosophy & behavior, with empathy & compassion  that will find them “becoming a part of the solution”.  The approach recommended will include:

1. To encourage Municipal Councils to “move a motion” to convene an Animal Welfare Committee that will review, discuss, seek public submissions, assess & recommend adoption of proposed Bylaws.

2. To encourage Municipal Councils to “move a motion” to include components of the Animal Relations Program in their ‘assessment’.

3. To encourage Media generally to do a “Feature Story” on the Animal Relations Program components, to interview Mayors & Councilors and keep the public aware on a consistent basis as to progress.

4. To encourage the “Public at-large” to become a “part of the solution” by abandoning their “apathetic” behavior and where currently “active” in one form or another, individually or as a member of a non-profit organization, come to recognize the “larger picture” and thus agree to offer individual/collective support to adoption of the Animal Relations Program, at Municipal Councils, by doing something pro-active, from writing Municipal Councils indicating “their support”, Letters to Editors, simply, anything progressive to further the objectives of the Animal Relations Program.

5. To cease condoning and thus permitting the ”irresponsible person” to perpetuate their unsatisfactory behavior with impunity, at “indifferent” behavior perpetuated by aforementioned people, thus, to demand acceptance of acceptable “community morals and behavior”, thus restoring “communities to responsible people”, by conforming to stated Animal Relations Program and anticipated adoption of components.

Symptomatic Problems

Hundreds of thousands of healthy & adoptable Dogs & Cats are being killed across North America; thousands of “ticking time bombs” are being tied to chains and other tethers 24 hours per day, becoming ‘unsocialized’ and ‘vicious’ Dogs, that will “given the opportunity”, attack, maul, kill another small Animal, Dog, Cat or indeed Child or Adult; many Dogs are barking “incessantly” disturbing many neighbors unabated; perpetrators of inhumane practices are not being prosecuted; “puppy & kitten mills” and the “indiscriminate breeder” flourish across North America, inflicting inhumane treatment upon Animals.  Many previously relied upon “out of sight out of mind approaches” and “ignorance” but no more.  Indeed, The Council Animal Advocacy (CLAW) and many others have “educated” levels of Government, all forms of Media & the public at-large, and none can say “they did not know about the atrocities and inhumane practices”, as they would simply be lying.  Many other examples of inhumane practices, wanton killing of Animals, for trophies, sport, profit, from Grizzly Bears, Wolves, Seals and other forms of Animals, all condoned and perpetuated by an uncaring person, many in government!

Similarly hundreds of thousands of kind caring and dedicated Humans, often called “Volunteers” are responding to the indifference felt from uncaring elected levels of government, by trying to fill the “void” of neglect caused.  Many are “overwhelmed”, some are getting “burned out” at the extreme efforts and countless hours day and night to attend to Animals in need.  Sometimes leadership is wanting in the true sense and too often people are elected to “Executive” positions, to “Boards” or as “President” not because of skill and ability but often “noone else wanted the job” and sometimes “politics”, in-fighting and power struggles are the order of the day.  Sometimes, we find individuals “thinking the organization is ‘theirs’ by default” and others display a pseudo “dictator” role.  While one hopes these are isolated examples, that those accepting leadership roles will be openminded, understanding, impartial, receptive to progressive steps needed and refrain from too militant, intransigent, opinionated perspectives & approaches.  Simply, we need to work in-concert and never lose sight of the objectives , the causes of problems, the solutions and most of all “improvement of Animals lives”.

Solutions

The Animal Relations Program consists of the following components:

1. Federal Government & Senate to adopt Bill C-22, as is, to recognize Animals as “sentient-beings” able to feel and fear pain and suffering (no longer deemed property), increased penalty for cruelty, prohibition from possessing Animals for durations up to life for convictions.

2. Provincial Governments to proclaim Cats as a “domestic animal”, in British Columbia to enshrine within the new “Community Charter”;

3. Provincial Governments to amend applicable legislation, such as in British Columbia the “Offense Act”, to permit Municipal Councils to issue “progressive fines” (ie; Warning, 1st offense, 2nd offense, 3rd offense, etc.) for ‘repeat offenders’ and similarly to make provision that a Municipal Council can impose ‘restitution to victims’, impose ‘community service’, impose ‘electronic monitoring’ and in more serious and repeat infractions commencing with a 4th offense, possible “incarceration”,  “impounding cause of infraction” (ie; incessantly barking Dog, Boom Box Stereo, etc.) – refer www.thecouncilclaw.ca/fines&penalty.htm

4. Provincial Government to “restore an ‘individual’ rights of complaint” and thus seek prosecution by an ‘individuals complaint’ not reliant upon ‘two or more residents’ to warrant a “neighborhood complaint” being prosecuted.

5. Provincial Government to establish “Regional” Bylaw Courts to adjudicate all “Animal issue infractions, general Municipal Bylaw infractions; traffic & vehicle offenses”.  To be staffed with progressive thinking and informed Prosecutors and Judges/Commissioner/Chair (Judicial or layperson).

6.  All levels of Government, to adopt the two-part philosophy that, first Legislation supported by Education is the effective and workable solution needed to remedy stated problems, their cause and bring about solutions as objectives state & secondly, that penalty must seek to ‘prevent’ an offense and/or prevent re-occurrence, thus in part, must render the offense as ‘unpopular’ to society and similarly penalty/fine must at least be double the cost of prescribed circumstance (ie; if a Dog License is $25 the offense fine must be at least $50, if spay or neuter is $50 then offense fine must be at least $100 and so forth).  Clearly, to-date, advocates of “education alone” have merely been preaching to the ‘already converted’ and those willing to respond when notified of some anomaly, which, let us hasten to add, education is important and encouraged but only in support of “legislation”.  Indeed, to the vast majority of “irresponsible people” contributing significantly to the problems stated and the cause, being told to respond solicits a response, “get lost” and seeks to “tie the hands of authorities”, thus merely seeking to perpetuate unsatisfactory behavior, continued killing of Animals, continued persecution of ‘victims’ being recipients of irresponsible and inconsiderate behavior.

7. Federal, Provincial or State and Municipal Councils to “proclaim August as “Homeless Animal Month” and the third Saturday as “Homeless Animal Day”, that will seek to enhance empathy toward the homeless Animal and assist in creation of a more caring environment to exist.

8. Federal, Provincial or State & Municipal Governments to adopt the prescribed terminology “Companion Animal” and to refer to the former “Property Pet Owner” as a “Companion Animal Guardian” thus creating the environment of being a “guardian” and to evoke caring implied by such a designation; thus all “community forms” and such would reflect this new designation (refer www.guardiancampaign.org for details).

9. Municipal Councils to incorporate existing “Bylaws” pertaining to Animals, into the prescribed Animal Relations Program Bylaw that will afford consistency of content across North America, that will include but not be limited to:

a).  To adopt a “Basic care & handling bylaw”

(refer to Bylaws at British Columbia Municipalities of Surrey (www.city.surrey.bc.ca), Coquitlam (www.coquitlam.ca) , Richmond (www.city.richmond.bc.ca) for details, to address the “neglected Dog & Cat” needs; to seek to prevent “unsocialized & vicious Dogs”.  Provisions of the Bylaw include but are not limited to:

i). continual provision of potable water, adequate food for breed, needed veterinary care, “unfettered exercise” daily as required for breed of Dog, proper shelter to protect from all elements of weather (ie; rain, snow, direct sun, cold, wind chill, etc.).

ii). maximum eight (8) hours tethering in any twenty-four (24) hour period; acceptable pen or yard enclosure sizes must be a minimum 15 feet by 15 feet (225 sq. ft.) and 10 feet high, (higher if the Dog is known to be able to scale the enclosure); tethers are to be a minimum 20 ft. in length and ‘run areas’ are to be free of any obstacles that may tangle or cause harm to the Dog; with tethers securely affixed to an item to prevent escape, may include a clothesline, stake in the ground, etc.,

iii).  no chain, rope, choke collar or other such material is to be placed directly upon a Dogs neck, only a safe appropriate collar.

iv). No Animal is to be neglected, abandoned, deprived of sustenance or “socialization” or in any manner mistreated that may cause distress or suffering, nor any inhumane behavior such as hitting or in any manner causing pain, suffering ,distress to any degree and such provisions are to augment conditions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act or such other like “ACT” that may be in force at any Province or State.

NOTE:  The Council Animal Advocacy (CLAW) advocate Dogs should be integrated as part of a Family, socialized and thus afforded access to property and real property as any Human.  However, we recognize society is not completely at this state and thus our alternative would be to have Dogs unfettered within appropriate secure enclosures and simply not tethered at all.  However, to commence improvement, wherein Companion Animal Guardians have not yet achieved our optimum level of socialization, we agree to conditions stipulated in this brief.

b).  To adopt a “Companion Animal Licensing Plan” for prescribed “breed specific Dogs” (refer  www.thecouncilclaw.ca/fines&penalties.htm)

c).  Specific tethering & confinement provisions include:

i). Dogs while on private property whereby persons other than the ‘immediate family’ whom either reside or are part of a ‘socialized’ family group, whom are permitted upon such property, the Dog or Dogs must be muzzled and/or kept in a secure location, such as pen enclosure or separate secure room, that is properly secured, locked, that a person has no access to, including if left in a yard while a Companion Animal Guardian or responsible and accountable person is not present, such Dog or Dogs must be in a secure, locked enclosure, that the public has no access to and the Dog cannot possibly escape from.

ii).  If the Dog or Dogs are known to be dangerous or vicious, that while the Companion Animal Guardian may be away from the real property, for any duration, the Dog or dogs must be muzzled.

d).  While it is recognized each Animal in a species may not currently be deemed dangerous or vicious and normally we would not advocate ‘breed specific” laws and presumably many anecdotal testimonies would be forthcoming about “how good the Dog was with Children, other animals, etc.,” just as after attacks, testimonies normally exclaim, “he/she never was aggressive, never attacked or bit anyone before”.  So, we are inclined to err in favor of caution and thus move to classify certain Dog breeds as:

i). potential danger and ability to inflict harm, such as Dogs over 35 lbs., a known propensity to be aggressive and/or

ii). Dogs deemed Dangerous or Vicious defined as “A Dog which injures a person or domestic Animal; or with a known propensity, tendency or disposition to attack without provocation, other domestic Animals or Humans; or which attacks or aggressively pursues a person or domestic Animal; or any Dog used primarily or in part, for the purpose of Guard Dog, Dog fighting or any Dog trained for Dog fighting “.

iii). Dogs to be classified in this precautionary classification include but are not limited to these breeds: “Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Doberman, Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, Pit Bull, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Bull Mastiff, Jack Russell Terrier, Presa Canairo, including any Dog of mixed breeding which includes any of the aforementioned breeds”.

NOTE: Dogs are a “social animal” and thus must not be deprived of “socialization”, including the opportunity to socialize with Companion Animal Guardians and other Family members, as well, other Humans and Companion Animals, such as Dogs & Cats, to exercise ‘unfettered’ which can be done under ‘control’ in designated ‘leash free areas’ providing the Dog is “under control and that precautions are taken, such as wearing a muzzle”.

iv).“Dogs are not our property and we are NOT their owners”, that it is a privilege, not a right to be a Guardian, thus, certain fundamental precautions need apply, such as:

a). Persons must be 18 years of age to obtain or be in public alone with a Dog or Dogs or to purchase a Dog from any source.

b). Basic Obedience Training is to be mandatory, preferably prior to obtaining a Dog but not longer than three (3) months after taking into possession.

c). A Companion Animal Guardian Questionnaire must be completed prior to obtaining a Dog.  Levels of Government may be inclined to develop their own questionnaire but for consistency and starters, we recommend law makers consult the informative brochure titled “Responsible Pet Guardianship” published by Doris Day Animal League (www.ddal.org) and MSPCA (www.mspca.org) and reprinted by In Defense of Animals (IDA).  As well, consult the supplementary brochure titled, “They are NOT our property” and “We are NOT their owners” published by In Defense of Animals, to gain needed insight to questionnaire content.

e).  To adopt the “mandatory Cat spay or neuter” Bylaw (such as in effect at two of Canada’s first Municipalities to adopt such Bylaw, at Coquitlam (www.coquitlam.ca ) and Surrey (www.city.surrey.bc.ca) , B.C. with other progressive Municipalities following) that will seek to prevent “unwanted” pets, to subsequently reduce “overpopulation” at Pounds/Shelters and negate need to keep killing healthy & adoptable Animals.  The norm is spay or neuter at 6 months, but we advocate either 5 months or preferably between 2 months and 5 months of age.

f).   To adopt the “mandatory Identification Tattoo & ‘optional micro-chip’ for Dogs & Cats (with our strong recommendation to Veterinarians and others providing this micro-chip, that to be universally acceptable, a low-cost or free micro-chip is needed to blanket the existing market and similarly use of the micro-chip must be made mandatory, otherwise a good idea is seen redundant as is); to facilitate more lost Companion Animals being returned to ‘rightful Companion Animal Guardians’ (We have written to BCVMA and CVMA pertaining to cooperation toward obtaining low-cost or free micro-chip services via Veterinarians).  Until such date as a mandatory micro-chip is possible, we support mandatory identification in the form of Dog Tag.  As well, “outside” Cats “collar identification” but only in the form of a light weight nylon stretchy fabric, easily removed if caught upon some obstruction, definitely no hard collar, flea collars and such that are on the market today.

g).  To adopt the specific “Breeder Permit” Bylaw

i). Breeder Permit 1 – personal use, to breed once per year

ii). Breeder Permit 2 – professional use, to breed up to twice per year, subject to Veterinary sanction. (Refer www.thecouncilclaw.ca/finesandpenalty.htm) limiting breeding of Companion Animals a move to eliminate offensive and inhumane “Puppy & Kitten Mills”, to contribute to planned births, thus contributing to reducing “unwanted” Animals (refer www.thecouncilclaw.ca/galleryofhorrors for pictures of “puppy & kitten mills”).

h). To adopt the proposed “No-Kill Shelter” using The Council Animal Advocacy (CLAW) definition, “no healthy or adoptable Animal will be killed”.

i).  To prohibit known “Vicious Dogs” or Dogs with a history of vicious behavior, propensity for aggressive and/or vicious behavior, to not be permitted in Public ‘off leash’ or without a ‘muzzle’ and only under the care of a responsible & competent handler (Refer to www.thecouncilclaw.ca/finesandpenalty.htm for list of specific Breeds and Licence Fees)

j). To prohibit “Incessantly barking Dogs” to remain outdoors or within hearing distance of a neighbor, with provision to impound and relocate offending Dogs to a more suitable home if the problem is not remedied.

k). To prohibit Companion Animal Guardians or those in possession of Dogs, to leave Dog excrement upon public places.

l).  To provide “leash free areas” within each ‘community’, whereby Dogs under control may run unfettered and those of “vicious” designation and/or predisposed to be aggressive/vicious, which if so, must be leashed and muzzled in the presence of other Dogs or Humans.

m). To prohibit more than three (3) Dogs to be under control of a capable handler, in public places, with no more than two(2) Dogs off-leash at a time, in approved ‘off-leash’ areas.

n).  To adopt a “Pet Establishment Bylaw” which outlines a set of acceptable standards (ie; such as at District of North Vancouver, B.C.( www.dnv.org for Bylaw details) to ensure provisions of care, handling and competence of trained personnel and facilities meet needs.

o).  To prohibit the carrying of any Companion Animal “unrestrained” is the rear of a vehicle, such as but not limited to the back of a pick-up truck.

p).  To prohibit the sale or trade of Companion Animals, including Ferrets, at any “unlicensed” venue, such as a Flea Market.

q).  To prohibit the sale or trade of a Companion Animal, including Ferret, by any individual, Humane Society, SPCA or other organization that such Animal, is not first spayed or neutered and tattoo affixed, nor by any licensed Breeder unless the purchaser first registers and obtains a Breeder Permit I or II that would permit either breeding, as prescribed and/or show class animal; that all advertising must include the Breeder Permit license number.

r).  To permit small Companion Animals upon Public Transportation in appropriate carrying cage and/or liaise with the Provincial Government if beyond the authority of a Municipal Council to do so.

s).  To permit small Companion Animals in public/private multi-family premises (ie: apartments, condominiums) and expand to permit a larger breed Dog in detached homes, providing in all cases where a Dog is kept that applicable Bylaw restrictions are observed, such as noise, enclosures and so forth are met, including provision of a maximum one (1) months rent as a ‘damage deposit’ to be able to have a Companion Animal.

t).   Where “mandatory” spay or neuter Bylaw is adopted, to consider components of a “Cost-Sharing Plan” whereby a Companion Animal Guardian may share equally with any agreed number of participants, such as but not limited to a “Veterinarian, Municipal Council, local Humane Society and/or SPCA” whereby an agreed plan of participation would be to get all Dogs and Cats spayed or neutered, identification tattoo affixed (including optional micro-chip if participants agree and/or arrangement can be made to secure a micro-chip at lesser cost, gratis, etc.), needed immunization administered (liaise with the SPCA to ascertain if the “SNAP” program applies).

NOTE:   The intent of such a cost-sharing plan is to dramatically reduce unwanted litters, by providing access to this lower cost as an incentive to Companion Animal Guardians to have procedures done – can be any duration of time, to meet needs.  We advocate a possible three level participation, subject to an assessment of need, number of unaltered Animals, ability to pay, thus we are potentially looking at:

i) A “blitz” for a to be determined duration, that all Dogs or Cats would be altered at a determined cost-sharing, with services provided “free” to a low income earner, (below $15,000.00 annual income) including annual Dog Licence.

ii)  A stated duration, to be held for stated times during a year, for cost–sharing procedures.

iii) A free spay or neuter and annual Dog Tag, provided to low-income earners (under$15,000.00 annually) year around

iv) Upon the purchase of a micro-chip, the Companion Animal Guardian is to be issued a “Lifetime License”

a) Income over $15,000.00 one-time purchase of an Annual License

b) Income under $15,000.00 “Free”

NOTE:  It is perceived that approximately 35% compliance to possessing Dog Tags License exists; that approximately 3.0% of lost Animals are returned to rightful Companion Animal Guardian; that many of the less fortunate will not License their Dog or have their Cat tattooed, let alone spayed or neutered; that a disproportionate amount of unwanted Pets come from low-income areas; that persons unable to afford costs will “run scared of authority”.  Hence, we are looking at both a “prevention of unwanted Animals” but as well, ”retention of Pets”, which unfortunately, too many Pets are available “free” and too many are seen as expendable.  Hence, given the seriousness of the stray, unwanted litters, feral situation and lack of accommodating homes to adopt, we advocate a two-fold attack:

i).   measures largely, as at present and as aforementioned for most responsible and/or persons able to afford and

ii).  To recognize the dilemma that exists and thus, provide free spay or neuter, identification & annual Dog License to low income earners, apply ‘education” and similarly give credit that even though a low income earner, many will respond to provisions out of a sense of pride and morals so they must be applauded.  Let me hasten to add, an argument can be made that ”if you are unable to properly look after your Companion Animal, such as attend to licenses, spay or neuter, identification, then you possibly cannot provide needed Veterinary services if the Animal becomes ill.” And thus, you possibly should not be permitted to be a Guardian.  This is indeed a real dilemma, insofar as such persons may, at that time of need, abandon their Companion Animal (some people are just irresponsible period) and what recourse does Society take?   Regardless, we must initially err in favor of moral issues and taking steps to meet needs of Society, which can be met by the processes we advocate.

u). We advocate Municipal Councils consider owning & operating No-Kill Animal Shelters, thus Municipalities gain real estate values, maintain control of operational and facility standards, to consider staffing and administration control by one or more, as needed, Municipal employee and local Humane Society and/or group of volunteers to carry out various programs from walking Dogs, to Foster Home Care, to adoptions.  Let us hasten to add, we do not have serious qualms about the SPCA performing in this role or in joint partnerships with a Municipality, providing agreed standards are maintained and the Shelter is a “No-Kill” facility.  The second part involves “Animal Control” and given the SPCA or in certain cases a local qualified Humane Society may perform this task with the proviso either entity be approved to administer provisions of a Provincial Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act; otherwise, we advocate the use of the SPCA to perform Animal Control Services.

i). we advocate Municipalities entering into a joint partnership scheme with Corrections Canada where a penal institution may exist in a municipality, that will see the Institution provide land and building for such a facility and that Inmates may participate in the care of Animals and participate in a meaningful and worthwhile rehabilitation program that caring for Animals will offer. (ie; Ferndale and formerly Sumas Correctional Center, B.C.)

Be sure to visit other important sections of our comprehensive web.site, as the more informed we all become the greater chance we will all work in-concert toward improving the treatment of Animals and the safety of foods we Consumers eat.  For your information our “Focus” is upon:

· GALLERY OF HORRORS – A pictorial essay of inhumane practices inflicted upon Animals, from Animals raised for Food to Companion Animals born into “Puppy & Kitten Mills”, to disgarded Pets in Land Fills.

· WHOLESOME & HUMANE PROGRAM – To improve the lives of Animal raised for Food, standards of care & handling at an Abattoir, during Livestock Transport and on the Farm; a reduction of anti-biotics to reduce chances of Humans becoming ill and experiencing resistant strains of super bugs, etc.; labeling of Genetically Altered Foods.  Refer to the GALLERY OF HORRORS  for pictorial examples of inhumane “Factory Farming” practices, including, “battery hen cages, pig farrowing crates, veal crates and many more”!!!

SCHEDULE “A”

The following list constitutes “wild or exotic animals” for the purposes of proposed legislation to which this schedule is attached.  The list includes all such species, whether bred in the wild or in captivity, also, all their hybrids with domestic species.  The words in parentheses are intended to act as examples only and are not to be construed as being an exhaustive list or to otherwise limit the generality of each group:

All artiodactylous ungulates, except domestic goats, sheep, pigs or cattle
All canidae, except domestic Dog
All crocodilians (such as alligator and crocodiles)
All edentates (such as anteaters, sloths and armadillos)
All elephantidae (elephants)
All erinacidae (except African pigmy hedgehog)
All felidae (such as Lion, Tiger, except Domestic Cat)
All hyaendae (hyenas)
All marsupials (such as Kangaroo and Opossums) except Sugar Gliders
All mustelidae (such as Skunks, Otters, and Weasels) except the domestic Ferret
All non-human primates (such as gorillas and monkeys)
All pinnipeds (such as Seals, Sea Lion, Fur Seals and Walruses)
All perissodactylous ungulates, except Domestic Horse or Ass
All procyonidae (such as Raccoons, Coatis and Cacomisties)
All pteropodidae (Bats)
All raptors, diurnal and nocturnal (such as Eagles, Hawks, Vultures, Owls)
All ratites (such as Ostrich, Rheas and Cassowaries)
All ursidae (Bears)
All venomous species (such as reptiles, tarantulas, Scorpions)
All viverridae (such as Mongooses, Civets and Genets)
All Cetacea (such as Beluga Whale, Orca Whale, and Dolphins)
All Iguanas (Green Iguana) smaller than 75cm, Monitor Lizards
All Testudines (such as Turtle, Tortoises and Terrapins)
All Red-eared sliders with a carapace (shell) less than cm.
All snakes
All Rodentia (such as Porcupines, prairie Dogs, Capybaras) except domesticated rodents, such as mice, rats, guinea pigs and gerbils
All Reptiles (such as, Bearded Dragons, Leopard Geckos)

Effective January 1, 2007