Statement On Winnipeg Animal Services Pet Ban Proposals
OTTAWA, ON – August 20, 2021 – PIJAC Canada applauds the City of Winnipeg’s proposed bylaw change regarding previously banned dog breeds, however as the voice of Canada’s pet industry, we have serious concerns about the proposed changes to laws concerning specialty pets.
A primary concern is the proposed ‘Allowed Animal’ list excludes common pets such as many breeds of fish, birds, small mammals, reptiles and amphibians.
If implemented, Winnipeg’s proposed specialty pet exclusions will, for example, cripple the supply of most salt water and fresh fish species that are popular. Additionally, many hobbyists work closely with researchers to further the care practices and preservation of species.
Considering that dedicated Winnipeg pet owners invest almost $91.5 million* in caring for their pets, banning popular breeds would be extremely detrimental to the local economy. There are 50 pet retailers in the Winnipeg area providing approximately 450* jobs to local people, and many are independent, or family owned and run businesses.
In fact, more than 90 per cent of specialty pets sold in Canadian pet stores come from regulated, captive breeding operations. The proposed breed bans will only serve only to drive trade into the black market, with no visibility into standards of care or breeding ethics. Regarding remaining population which are wild caught, Winnipeg suppliers who do provide animals such as fish, rigorously vet their sources and work directly with them to understand the care for all species
“Pets play an important role in Canadians’ everyday lives, and on behalf of our members we advocate the humane treatment, as well as responsible and sourcing and sale of animals,” says Christine Carrière, President and CEO, PIJAC Canada. “As such, we would welcome the opportunity to participate in Winnipeg’s responsible pet ownership bylaw consultation and public discussion.”
Clarity is also needed on other issues mentioned in the proposed changes, such as regulations for dog daycares. Best practices are an effective way to clarify what is expected of citizens and business owners, however without understanding the scope and detail of what potential bylaws will mean, it causes concern for those who will be impacted by them.
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About PIJAC Canada:
PIJAC Canada, the voice of the Canadian pet industry since 1988, is a non-profit organization and is part of an international networks of pet industry associations. Visit www. pijaccanada.com for more information.
*sourced from Data Axle
Press Enquiries:
Susan Dankert
Communications Director, PIJAC Canada
susan.dankert@pijaccanada.com
1-800-667-7452 x 115
