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Hearing Postponed in City of London’s Legal Action Against Reptilia Zoo

Reptilia Zoo appeared in court on March 18 for a hearing about whether provincial licensing rules exempt the facility from the City of London’s Animal Control By-Law, which prohibits the display of exotic animals. Scheduled for five hours, the hearing lasted mere minutes as the City's lawyer requested an adjournment until April 12 due to delays in receiving necessary documents from Reptilia. Despite making three unsuccessful attempts to secure an exemption from the Animal Control By-Law through city council, Reptilia now contends that its provincial license grants it operational authority, regardless of the lack of a specific by-law exemption. The City is seeking an order to prevent Reptilia from operating in contravention of the by-law, along with a declaration affirming their non-exempt status.

Toronto Considers Public List for “Dangerous Dogs” After Mauling Incident

Toronto city councillors met on February 20, 2024, to debate proposed changes in handling severe dog attacks, including establishing a public registry of individual “dangerous dogs.” Prompted by a mauling incident last July, Councilor Paula Fletcher urged an inquiry into the City’s enforcement of dangerous dog orders. The incident resulted in serious injuries and criminal charges against a dog owner. Recommendations include creating a public list detailing dog information and allocating funds for communication campaigns. City staff also propose standardized warning signs for owners and expedited proceedings in dog attack cases.

Advocates Push for Ban on Glue Traps in British Columbia Municipality

Representatives from the British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA) and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) addressed Saanich council on February 5, 2024, denouncing glue traps as cruel and ineffective in tackling infestation. Sarah Herring of the BC SPCA highlighted the prolonged suffering of trapped animals and the risk of unintended victims, including household pets. Councillor Teale Phelps Bondaroff, introducing the motion, referenced other jurisdictions that have already banned these traps, while highlighting provincial steps to prohibit other inhumane rodent extermination methods, such as rodenticide. Councillors voted unanimously to send the matter to the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities and the Union of BC Municipalities to engage other communities to pressure the government for a province-wide ban.

British Columbia City Shifts Animal Control Services, Enhances Enforcement

Effective February 1, 2024, the City of Burnaby, British Columbia, has assumed control of animal services related to its bylaws that were formerly managed by the Burnaby Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). This transition aims to bolster service quality and enforcement in public spaces, encompassing tasks such as addressing welfare concerns, managing barking dogs, handling strays, and removing deceased animals. Meanwhile, the Burnaby SPCA will concentrate on caring for strays, accepting surrenders, adoptions, and addressing concerns of abuse or cruelty. This reallocation is intended to optimize resources for both entities, enhancing animal welfare and enforcement efforts within the community.

Regina City Council Rejects Backyard Chicken Pilot Project

At their first meeting of the year, Regina City Council voted against a proposal for a backyard chicken pilot project. Ward 8 Councillor Shanon Zachidniak initially suggested the initiative. Despite support from groups like Queen City Chickens, concerns over pests and avian flu deterred Mayor Sandra Masters and four others from pursuing the idea. Mayor Masters emphasized the need to prioritize other city issues such as housing, zoning, and service demands.

Concerns Arise Over Ontario Couple’s Kennel Zoning Request

An application submitted by a couple from Mapleton, Ontario, seeking a zoning by-law amendment to allow for a breeding kennel on their property has sparked concerns from several councillors. Although they claim the kennel has operated for years with just three dogs, the report indicates there are several buildings on the property currently housing other animals such as kangaroos, birds, lemurs, and goats. Councillor Michael Martin expressed his frustration with the application, highlighting numerous activities on the property that appear to be non-compliant with township bylaws. He also questioned the necessity for additional kennels in the area, stating, “Mapleton is full of licensed kennels. I’m not convinced that we need another one, to be honest. […] And it’s also full of unlicensed kennels and breeding operations that have received a fair amount of media, and rightly so. It’s a concern.” A recommendation report and proposed bylaw amendment will be drafted for review once outstanding concerns have been addressed.

Saskatoon Resident Gains Committee Support for Pet Limit By-law Proposal

Saskatoon resident Kelsey Stroeder received support from the City Council’s Standing Policy Committee on Planning, Development and Community Services for her proposed amendment to the Animal Control By-law. Stroeder is proposing the City limit households to a maximum of ten cats and dogs, aiming to prevent hoarding and regulate animal breeding operations. Despite anticipating public opposition, she contends that a reasonable restriction can combat neglect and unsanitary conditions. The proposal will now be sent to administration for inclusion in the annual review of the Animal Control By-law.

Firefighters Watch Dog Drown in Icy Water Due to Department Policy

Firefighters in Barrie, Ontario, watched as a couple’s ten-year-old golden retriever, Brody, fell through the ice on a river near the couple’s house. Dennis and Linda Weaver, both 71, called 911 when Brody fell through the ice. According to Linda, firefighters stationed at the shoreline explained that they were unable to intervene, citing the department's policy against conducting water or ice rescues for companion animals due to associated risks. A municipal bylaw reinforces this restriction, preventing firefighters from undertaking services beyond their training. South River Machar Fire Chief Risto Maki clarified the department's lack of training in swift water rescues and tethering to animals.

Nova’s Ark Withdraws Request for Exotic Animal By-law Exemption in Whitby, Ontario

Nova's Ark, a charity offering animal-assisted therapy in Whitby, Ontario, has withdrawn its exemption request from the Town’s Prohibited and Regulated Animals By-Law, seeking approval to house various prohibited wild and exotic animals. The non-profit, in operation since 2005, faced a 2021 complaint about the possession of restricted animals. After a campaign by animal protection groups, including Zoocheck and World Animal Protection, Town of Whitby staff recommended against the exemption, citing safety concerns. Nova's Ark withdrew its request and The Town of Whitby accepted the withdrawal, tasking staff with ensuring compliance. Nearly a hundred unlawfully kept wild and exotic animals are now slated for relocation, and Animal Justice is advocating for their placement in sanctuaries rather than other zoos for entertainment.