Ontario’s brand new animal welfare system came into effect yesterday, marking the first fully provincial government-based animal welfare enforcement system in Canada.
The newly-implemented Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) Act means Ontario now has the the strongest penalties in Canada for people who violate animal welfare laws.
The new act also enables Ontario courts to impose the highest financial penalties for offenders in Canada.
On top of this, the province will also “update prohibitions and obligations, such as barring the return of dog fighting equipment to a person convicted of an offence and harming or attempting to harm a service animal or one that works with peace officers.”
A multi-disciplinary advisory table — comprised of experts such as veterinarians, agriculture representatives, academics, animal advocates and others — will also be established in order to provide ongoing advice on animal welfare to the ministry.
In addition to PAWS, the province has also established a 24/7 toll-free number (1-833-926-4625) where people can report concerns about animal distress or abuse.