Amendments Will Provide Better Animal Protection

The Department of Agriculture is making animal protection more effective by clarifying the powers and duties of inspectors in cases involving animals in the care of the province or the SPCA.

Agriculture Minister John MacDonell introduced amendments to the Animal Protection Act today, Nov. 8.

The amendments include enabling the province to recover costs associated with the seizure and care of farm animals from the owner. A similar provision currently exists for the SPCA regarding domestic animals.

"Animal protection is an important issue for Nova Scotians," said Mr. MacDonell. "As a farmer and as someone who cares about animals, I'm very pleased with this comprehensive law. It enables fair and timely investigation into complaints and enhances the way the province looks after animals in distress.

"Costs can be substantial for necessary veterinary and medical treatment and the care of animals. The proposed changes are necessary to ensure those costs are recovered. These amendments provide courses of action that will lessen the burden on taxpayers."

The amendments will also shorten the time before the department can seize abandoned farm animals.

The province has enforced the Animal Protection Act since 2010.