The Yukon’s Animal Protection and Control Act has received assent in the territorial legislature. The act allows for permits and inspections of animal-related businesses, expands enforcement resources relating to “high-risk” and feral animals, and empowers local officers to improve standards of regulation. The Yukon government claims “[i]t will provide a comprehensive, enforceable legal framework for managing all aspects of animal protection and control in the Yukon and establishes higher standards of care than what previously existed.” The act is slated to come into effect in 2023 once regulations are developed.
This Week's Spotlights
Legislative Spotlights
Yukon’s Animal Protection and Control Act Receives Assent
Government of P.E.I. Votes Down Giving Tenants the Right to Have Animals in Rental Homes
Prince Edward Island’s provincial government has voted not to amend its Residential Tenancies Act in a way that would have solidified the rights of tenants to have animals in their rental homes. Green Party Member of the Legislative Assembly, Karla Bernard, was in support of the amendment ahead of the vote, noting that if the government passed it, it would demonstrate that they understand the struggles tenants endure when trying to keep their companion animals through a move to new housing. The province’s Housing and Social Development Minister, Matthew MacKay, voted against the amendment, noting he understands both sides of the issue, but that the landlords should ultimately “have some of the discretion.”
Prince Edward Island’s provincial government has voted not to amend its Residential Tenancies Act in a way that would have solidified the rights of tenants to have animals in their rental homes. Green Party Member of the Legislative Assembly, Karla Bernard, was in support of the amendment ahead of the vote, noting that if the government passed it, it would demonstrate that they understand the struggles tenants endure when trying to keep their companion animals through a move to new housing. The province’s Housing and Social Development Minister, Matthew MacKay, voted against the amendment, noting he understands both sides of the issue, but that the landlords should ultimately “have some of the discretion.”
Jane Goodall Act Moving at a Snail’s Pace
Senator Tory Dean rose in the Senate to recommend the Jane Goodall Act move to committee study. He pointed out that there have been eight speeches on the Bill since it was introduced by Senator Marty Klyne in March 2022, with debate time totalling over two and a half hours. Senator Dean pointed out that that “this makes Bill S-241 the most debated non-government bill at this stage in the Senate in this Parliament. To put it simply, we could describe here the zoo bill moving at a snail’s pace.”
Senator Tory Dean rose in the Senate to recommend the Jane Goodall Act move to committee study. He pointed out that there have been eight speeches on the Bill since it was introduced by Senator Marty Klyne in March 2022, with debate time totalling over two and a half hours. Senator Dean pointed out that that “this makes Bill S-241 the most debated non-government bill at this stage in the Senate in this Parliament. To put it simply, we could describe here the zoo bill moving at a snail’s pace.”
More Debate on the Jane Goodall Act
Senator Karen Sorensen rose to give the ninth speech on Bill S-241, the Jane Goodall Act, since it was introduced in March 2022. She responded to questions raised about why the proposed Bill uses an American organization, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), as the standard for animal care organizations that would be allowed to continue to operate after the Bill is passed, rather than Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA), explaining that the AZA has higher standards than CAZA.
Senator Karen Sorensen rose to give the ninth speech on Bill S-241, the Jane Goodall Act, since it was introduced in March 2022. She responded to questions raised about why the proposed Bill uses an American organization, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), as the standard for animal care organizations that would be allowed to continue to operate after the Bill is passed, rather than Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA), explaining that the AZA has higher standards than CAZA.
Litigation Spotlights
Longueuil Unable to Proceed with Deer Cull Until Quebec Court of Appeal Renders Decision
On November 25th, the Quebec Court of Appeal heard an appeal from the Montreal SPCA and Sauvetage Animal Rescue regarding the culling of deer in Longueuil’s Michel-Chartrand Park. The City of Longueuil will not be permitted to proceed with the culling until the Court of Appeal’s decision has been made. The Superior Court had recently refused to order the suspension of the deer cull planned this fall by the city, but the Quebec Court of Appeal granted the request of the SPCA and Sauvetage Animal Rescue to appeal the verdict. The Court of Appeal has not provided any information concerning when it will issue its decision.
On November 25th, the Quebec Court of Appeal heard an appeal from the Montreal SPCA and Sauvetage Animal Rescue regarding the culling of deer in Longueuil’s Michel-Chartrand Park. The City of Longueuil will not be permitted to proceed with the culling until the Court of Appeal’s decision has been made. The Superior Court had recently refused to order the suspension of the deer cull planned this fall by the city, but the Quebec Court of Appeal granted the request of the SPCA and Sauvetage Animal Rescue to appeal the verdict. The Court of Appeal has not provided any information concerning when it will issue its decision.
Enforcement Spotlights
Ontario Woman Charged After Video Shows Horse Being Dragged
A twenty-three year-old Ontario woman has been charged with "causing distress to an animal” under the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act after a graphic video of a horse being dragged surfaced online. According to sources, the woman worked at Wishing Stone Farm, which offers a range of services including horse boarding and training. She is expected to appear at a provincial offences court date in January 2023.
A twenty-three year-old Ontario woman has been charged with "causing distress to an animal” under the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act after a graphic video of a horse being dragged surfaced online. According to sources, the woman worked at Wishing Stone Farm, which offers a range of services including horse boarding and training. She is expected to appear at a provincial offences court date in January 2023.
Agency Spotlights
Canada and Ontario Governments Investing in Biosecurity at Ontario Poultry Operations
The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario have announced an investment of up to $1.5 million to support enhanced biosecurity measures to reduce the spread of avian influenza. Named the Poultry Biosecurity Preparedness Initiative, this investment is directed at non-supply-managed poultry operations and related agri-businesses. Eligible actions under this support include the addition of new equipment, cleaning and disinfecting resources, and protocols designed to mitigate interactions between wild and farmed birds.
The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario have announced an investment of up to $1.5 million to support enhanced biosecurity measures to reduce the spread of avian influenza. Named the Poultry Biosecurity Preparedness Initiative, this investment is directed at non-supply-managed poultry operations and related agri-businesses. Eligible actions under this support include the addition of new equipment, cleaning and disinfecting resources, and protocols designed to mitigate interactions between wild and farmed birds.
Academic Spotlights
New Book Explores the Challenges of Effective Altruism in the Animal Rights Movement
Carol J. Adams, Alice Crary, and Lori Gruen (eds.), The Good It Promises, the Harm It Does: Critical Essays on Effective Altruism (US: Oxford University Press, 2023).
Summary: The Good It Promises, the Harm It Does is the first edited volume to critically engage with Effective Altruism (EA). It brings together writers from diverse activist and scholarly backgrounds to explore a variety of unique grassroots movements and community organizing efforts. By drawing attention to these responses and to particular cases of human and animal harms, this book represents a powerful call to attend to different voices and projects and to elevate activist traditions that EA lacks the resources to assess and threatens to squelch. The contributors reveal the weakness inherent within the ready-made, top-down solutions that EA offers in response to many global problems-and offers in their place substantial descriptions of more meaningful and just social engagement.
This book is now available for pre-order and will be released on January 31, 2023.
Carol J. Adams, Alice Crary, and Lori Gruen (eds.), The Good It Promises, the Harm It Does: Critical Essays on Effective Altruism (US: Oxford University Press, 2023).
Summary: The Good It Promises, the Harm It Does is the first edited volume to critically engage with Effective Altruism (EA). It brings together writers from diverse activist and scholarly backgrounds to explore a variety of unique grassroots movements and community organizing efforts. By drawing attention to these responses and to particular cases of human and animal harms, this book represents a powerful call to attend to different voices and projects and to elevate activist traditions that EA lacks the resources to assess and threatens to squelch. The contributors reveal the weakness inherent within the ready-made, top-down solutions that EA offers in response to many global problems-and offers in their place substantial descriptions of more meaningful and just social engagement.
This book is now available for pre-order and will be released on January 31, 2023.
Call for Applications: Law Lecturers' Workshop
Sean Butler and Raffael Fasel from the Cambridge Centre for Animal Rights Law are providing a 5-day Law Lecturers' Workshop on May 8-12, 2023 in Burlington, VT for those interested in teaching animal rights law at a University that does not currently have an animal law program. In collaboration with the Vermont Law and Graduate School, this Workshop is providing strategies on creating a syllabus, course materials and readings, and an opportunity to build a custom program. Applications are accepted through December 23rd, 2022.
Sean Butler and Raffael Fasel from the Cambridge Centre for Animal Rights Law are providing a 5-day Law Lecturers' Workshop on May 8-12, 2023 in Burlington, VT for those interested in teaching animal rights law at a University that does not currently have an animal law program. In collaboration with the Vermont Law and Graduate School, this Workshop is providing strategies on creating a syllabus, course materials and readings, and an opportunity to build a custom program. Applications are accepted through December 23rd, 2022.
International Spotlights
Century-old Irish Foxhunt has Shut Down
Based in Counties Kilkenny and Tipperary, The Kilmoganny Foxhounds has reportedly gone out of business as a result of a “huge increase in insurance costs.” The Irish Field has reported that the hunt had “no other option but to disband” due to running costs. Its pack of sixty hounds targeted foxes twice per week for 104 years.
Based in Counties Kilkenny and Tipperary, The Kilmoganny Foxhounds has reportedly gone out of business as a result of a “huge increase in insurance costs.” The Irish Field has reported that the hunt had “no other option but to disband” due to running costs. Its pack of sixty hounds targeted foxes twice per week for 104 years.
Stray Dogs in Qatar Abused as the World Cup Begins
Qatar, the host of the 2022 World Cup, is rounding up stray dogs and taking them to shelters where they are reportedly being euthanized. The country’s strays are regularly subject to abuse and attacks, but since the World Cup’s arrival authorities have been taking people’s companion animals as a form of “pest control.” Shelters in Doha, Qatar’s capital, are now over capacity with thousands of dogs.
Qatar, the host of the 2022 World Cup, is rounding up stray dogs and taking them to shelters where they are reportedly being euthanized. The country’s strays are regularly subject to abuse and attacks, but since the World Cup’s arrival authorities have been taking people’s companion animals as a form of “pest control.” Shelters in Doha, Qatar’s capital, are now over capacity with thousands of dogs.
U.S. Senator Cory Booker Announces Legislation to Hold Factory Farms Accountable
United States Senator Cory Booker announced the Industrial Agriculture Accountability Act. The Act would hold factory farms liable for disaster mitigation and establish new protections for farmed animals by, for example, requiring that industrial operators submit disaster preparedness plans, ensuring that industrial operators are not using the worst depopulation and slaughter practices, and mandating that corporations pay to cover the costs of preparing for and responding to disaster events.
United States Senator Cory Booker announced the Industrial Agriculture Accountability Act. The Act would hold factory farms liable for disaster mitigation and establish new protections for farmed animals by, for example, requiring that industrial operators submit disaster preparedness plans, ensuring that industrial operators are not using the worst depopulation and slaughter practices, and mandating that corporations pay to cover the costs of preparing for and responding to disaster events.
China Opens World’s Largest Pig Farm, Ready to Slaughter One Million Pigs Per Year
Ezhou, a city in China’s Hubei province, has opened the world’s largest pig farm, with the capacity to slaughter 1.2 million pigs per year. The skyscraper-sized farm is a response to China’s extremely high demand for pork, the most sought-after animal protein in the country. Critics are noting, however, that this ultra-industrial agriculture model will increase the likelihood of disease outbreaks. Local farmers are also expressing worry that an odour issue will arise once it is entirely operational.
Ezhou, a city in China’s Hubei province, has opened the world’s largest pig farm, with the capacity to slaughter 1.2 million pigs per year. The skyscraper-sized farm is a response to China’s extremely high demand for pork, the most sought-after animal protein in the country. Critics are noting, however, that this ultra-industrial agriculture model will increase the likelihood of disease outbreaks. Local farmers are also expressing worry that an odour issue will arise once it is entirely operational.
Other Spotlights
COP27 Deemed a Disappointment in Addressing Animal Agriculture’s Role in Climate Change
Many are calling the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) a “disappointment” in addressing the role of animal agriculture in climate change. Canada’s official delegation to COP27 contained representatives of the meat and dairy industries. Although the conference welcomed its first-ever Food Systems Pavilion, there were no major talks surrounding animal agriculture. The menu also featured animal-based dishes, including a beef medallion dish, a seafood platter, and a salmon dish.
Many are calling the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) a “disappointment” in addressing the role of animal agriculture in climate change. Canada’s official delegation to COP27 contained representatives of the meat and dairy industries. Although the conference welcomed its first-ever Food Systems Pavilion, there were no major talks surrounding animal agriculture. The menu also featured animal-based dishes, including a beef medallion dish, a seafood platter, and a salmon dish.
Updated Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Goats Released
The National Farm Animal Care Council and the Canadian National Goat Federation have released the 2022 update of the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Goats. This edition replaces its 2003 predecessor and provides several enhanced requirements and recommendations for the treatment standards of goats on Canadian farms. Melissa Speirs, the Humane Canada representative on the goat Code Development Committee, noted that “this Code reflects the industry’s progress on welfare since the 2003 Code and incorporates current research on goat welfare.”
The National Farm Animal Care Council and the Canadian National Goat Federation have released the 2022 update of the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Goats. This edition replaces its 2003 predecessor and provides several enhanced requirements and recommendations for the treatment standards of goats on Canadian farms. Melissa Speirs, the Humane Canada representative on the goat Code Development Committee, noted that “this Code reflects the industry’s progress on welfare since the 2003 Code and incorporates current research on goat welfare.”
Toronto Humane Society Robbed Day Before Giving Tuesday
A van from the basement garage of the Toronto Humane Society used to rescue and transport injured animals and to deliver pet food to those in need was stolen on the eve of Giving Tuesday. Security footage captured two men breaking in with a crow bar. No animals or staff were harmed. Police attended and are investigating.
A van from the basement garage of the Toronto Humane Society used to rescue and transport injured animals and to deliver pet food to those in need was stolen on the eve of Giving Tuesday. Security footage captured two men breaking in with a crow bar. No animals or staff were harmed. Police attended and are investigating.
Canadian Partnership Invests Millions in Plant-Based Seafood
The Government of Canada and Canadian food companies Konscious Foods, Merit Functional Foods, and Canadian Pacifico Seaweeds have invested $11.3 million to support the development of over twenty plant-based seafood alternatives incorporating ingredients grown and processed in Canada.
The Government of Canada and Canadian food companies Konscious Foods, Merit Functional Foods, and Canadian Pacifico Seaweeds have invested $11.3 million to support the development of over twenty plant-based seafood alternatives incorporating ingredients grown and processed in Canada.
Legislative Updates
Yukon’s Animal Protection and Control Act Receives Assent
The Yukon’s Animal Protection and Control Act has received assent in the territorial legislature. The act allows for permits and inspections of animal-related businesses, expands enforcement resources relating to “high-risk” and feral animals, and empowers local officers to improve standards of regulation. The Yukon government claims “[i]t will provide a comprehensive, enforceable legal framework for managing all aspects of animal protection and control in the Yukon and establishes higher standards of care than what previously existed.” The act is slated to come into effect in 2023 once regulations are developed.
The Yukon’s Animal Protection and Control Act has received assent in the territorial legislature. The act allows for permits and inspections of animal-related businesses, expands enforcement resources relating to “high-risk” and feral animals, and empowers local officers to improve standards of regulation. The Yukon government claims “[i]t will provide a comprehensive, enforceable legal framework for managing all aspects of animal protection and control in the Yukon and establishes higher standards of care than what previously existed.” The act is slated to come into effect in 2023 once regulations are developed.
Government of P.E.I. Votes Down Giving Tenants the Right to Have Animals in Rental Homes
Prince Edward Island’s provincial government has voted not to amend its Residential Tenancies Act in a way that would have solidified the rights of tenants to have animals in their rental homes. Green Party Member of the Legislative Assembly, Karla Bernard, was in support of the amendment ahead of the vote, noting that if the government passed it, it would demonstrate that they understand the struggles tenants endure when trying to keep their companion animals through a move to new housing. The province’s Housing and Social Development Minister, Matthew MacKay, voted against the amendment, noting he understands both sides of the issue, but that the landlords should ultimately “have some of the discretion.”
Prince Edward Island’s provincial government has voted not to amend its Residential Tenancies Act in a way that would have solidified the rights of tenants to have animals in their rental homes. Green Party Member of the Legislative Assembly, Karla Bernard, was in support of the amendment ahead of the vote, noting that if the government passed it, it would demonstrate that they understand the struggles tenants endure when trying to keep their companion animals through a move to new housing. The province’s Housing and Social Development Minister, Matthew MacKay, voted against the amendment, noting he understands both sides of the issue, but that the landlords should ultimately “have some of the discretion.”
Jane Goodall Act Moving at a Snail’s Pace
Senator Tory Dean rose in the Senate to recommend the Jane Goodall Act move to committee study. He pointed out that there have been eight speeches on the Bill since it was introduced by Senator Marty Klyne in March 2022, with debate time totalling over two and a half hours. Senator Dean pointed out that that “this makes Bill S-241 the most debated non-government bill at this stage in the Senate in this Parliament. To put it simply, we could describe here the zoo bill moving at a snail’s pace.”
Senator Tory Dean rose in the Senate to recommend the Jane Goodall Act move to committee study. He pointed out that there have been eight speeches on the Bill since it was introduced by Senator Marty Klyne in March 2022, with debate time totalling over two and a half hours. Senator Dean pointed out that that “this makes Bill S-241 the most debated non-government bill at this stage in the Senate in this Parliament. To put it simply, we could describe here the zoo bill moving at a snail’s pace.”
More Debate on the Jane Goodall Act
Senator Karen Sorensen rose to give the ninth speech on Bill S-241, the Jane Goodall Act, since it was introduced in March 2022. She responded to questions raised about why the proposed Bill uses an American organization, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), as the standard for animal care organizations that would be allowed to continue to operate after the Bill is passed, rather than Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA), explaining that the AZA has higher standards than CAZA.
Senator Karen Sorensen rose to give the ninth speech on Bill S-241, the Jane Goodall Act, since it was introduced in March 2022. She responded to questions raised about why the proposed Bill uses an American organization, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), as the standard for animal care organizations that would be allowed to continue to operate after the Bill is passed, rather than Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA), explaining that the AZA has higher standards than CAZA.
Reptilia Zoo Seeks an Exemption to a London Animal Control Bylaw
Reptilia Zoo appeared before the Community and Protective Services committee of London Ontario requesting an exemption to a city bylaw that effectively bans private zoos that display exotic species. Eleven out of fifteen speakers opposed the zoo’s request for an exemption. The committee voted to attach a report by city staff to the bylaw exemption exploring its implications, as well as other options available for the full council, who must be involved in any final approval of an exemption.
Reptilia Zoo appeared before the Community and Protective Services committee of London Ontario requesting an exemption to a city bylaw that effectively bans private zoos that display exotic species. Eleven out of fifteen speakers opposed the zoo’s request for an exemption. The committee voted to attach a report by city staff to the bylaw exemption exploring its implications, as well as other options available for the full council, who must be involved in any final approval of an exemption.
Manitoba Bill Would Strengthen Rules Against Leaving Pets in Vehicles in Extreme Temperatures
Manitoba MLA Obby Khan has introduced a private member's bill that would forbid people from leaving a pet unattended in a vehicle when the outside temperature is above twenty-two degrees Celsius or below minus ten degrees Celsius. Bill 213, also known as The Animal Care Amendment Act, has received unanimous support from all parties and will go to public hearings before a final vote.
Manitoba MLA Obby Khan has introduced a private member's bill that would forbid people from leaving a pet unattended in a vehicle when the outside temperature is above twenty-two degrees Celsius or below minus ten degrees Celsius. Bill 213, also known as The Animal Care Amendment Act, has received unanimous support from all parties and will go to public hearings before a final vote.
Litigation Updates
Longueuil Unable to Proceed with Deer Cull Until Quebec Court of Appeal Renders Decision
On November 25th, the Quebec Court of Appeal heard an appeal from the Montreal SPCA and Sauvetage Animal Rescue regarding the culling of deer in Longueuil’s Michel-Chartrand Park. The City of Longueuil will not be permitted to proceed with the culling until the Court of Appeal’s decision has been made. The Superior Court had recently refused to order the suspension of the deer cull planned this fall by the city, but the Quebec Court of Appeal granted the request of the SPCA and Sauvetage Animal Rescue to appeal the verdict. The Court of Appeal has not provided any information concerning when it will issue its decision.
On November 25th, the Quebec Court of Appeal heard an appeal from the Montreal SPCA and Sauvetage Animal Rescue regarding the culling of deer in Longueuil’s Michel-Chartrand Park. The City of Longueuil will not be permitted to proceed with the culling until the Court of Appeal’s decision has been made. The Superior Court had recently refused to order the suspension of the deer cull planned this fall by the city, but the Quebec Court of Appeal granted the request of the SPCA and Sauvetage Animal Rescue to appeal the verdict. The Court of Appeal has not provided any information concerning when it will issue its decision.
Enforcement Updates
Ontario Woman Charged After Video Shows Horse Being Dragged
A twenty-three year-old Ontario woman has been charged with "causing distress to an animal” under the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act after a graphic video of a horse being dragged surfaced online. According to sources, the woman worked at Wishing Stone Farm, which offers a range of services including horse boarding and training. She is expected to appear at a provincial offences court date in January 2023.
A twenty-three year-old Ontario woman has been charged with "causing distress to an animal” under the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act after a graphic video of a horse being dragged surfaced online. According to sources, the woman worked at Wishing Stone Farm, which offers a range of services including horse boarding and training. She is expected to appear at a provincial offences court date in January 2023.
B.C. Dog Seized After Being Dragged Behind Truck
Heidi, a three-year-old German shepherd, was seized by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police after she was found severely injured on the side of the road in British Columbia (BC). The dog fell out of the back of a pickup truck and was dragged behind the vehicle by her tether. Heidi was rushed to a veterinary hospital for emergency surgery and is now in the care of the BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Nanaimo BC.
Heidi, a three-year-old German shepherd, was seized by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police after she was found severely injured on the side of the road in British Columbia (BC). The dog fell out of the back of a pickup truck and was dragged behind the vehicle by her tether. Heidi was rushed to a veterinary hospital for emergency surgery and is now in the care of the BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Nanaimo BC.
Agency Updates
Canada and Ontario Governments Investing in Biosecurity at Ontario Poultry Operations
The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario have announced an investment of up to $1.5 million to support enhanced biosecurity measures to reduce the spread of avian influenza. Named the Poultry Biosecurity Preparedness Initiative, this investment is directed at non-supply-managed poultry operations and related agri-businesses. Eligible actions under this support include the addition of new equipment, cleaning and disinfecting resources, and protocols designed to mitigate interactions between wild and farmed birds.
The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario have announced an investment of up to $1.5 million to support enhanced biosecurity measures to reduce the spread of avian influenza. Named the Poultry Biosecurity Preparedness Initiative, this investment is directed at non-supply-managed poultry operations and related agri-businesses. Eligible actions under this support include the addition of new equipment, cleaning and disinfecting resources, and protocols designed to mitigate interactions between wild and farmed birds.
Supply-managed Sectors to Receive Government Compensation for the Impacts of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement
The Government of Canada has reaffirmed that it will provide compensation to supply-managed sectors for the impacts of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement. Dairy, poultry and egg processors and producers will split over $1.7 billion in direct payments and investment programs. The government says that this investment will “help dairy, poultry and egg processors and producers make key investments and improve their operations to be even more productive and sustainable.”
The Government of Canada has reaffirmed that it will provide compensation to supply-managed sectors for the impacts of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement. Dairy, poultry and egg processors and producers will split over $1.7 billion in direct payments and investment programs. The government says that this investment will “help dairy, poultry and egg processors and producers make key investments and improve their operations to be even more productive and sustainable.”
Academic Updates
New Book Explores the Challenges of Effective Altruism in the Animal Rights Movement
Carol J. Adams, Alice Crary, and Lori Gruen (eds.), The Good It Promises, the Harm It Does: Critical Essays on Effective Altruism (US: Oxford University Press, 2023).
Summary: The Good It Promises, the Harm It Does is the first edited volume to critically engage with Effective Altruism (EA). It brings together writers from diverse activist and scholarly backgrounds to explore a variety of unique grassroots movements and community organizing efforts. By drawing attention to these responses and to particular cases of human and animal harms, this book represents a powerful call to attend to different voices and projects and to elevate activist traditions that EA lacks the resources to assess and threatens to squelch. The contributors reveal the weakness inherent within the ready-made, top-down solutions that EA offers in response to many global problems-and offers in their place substantial descriptions of more meaningful and just social engagement.
This book is now available for pre-order and will be released on January 31, 2023.
Carol J. Adams, Alice Crary, and Lori Gruen (eds.), The Good It Promises, the Harm It Does: Critical Essays on Effective Altruism (US: Oxford University Press, 2023).
Summary: The Good It Promises, the Harm It Does is the first edited volume to critically engage with Effective Altruism (EA). It brings together writers from diverse activist and scholarly backgrounds to explore a variety of unique grassroots movements and community organizing efforts. By drawing attention to these responses and to particular cases of human and animal harms, this book represents a powerful call to attend to different voices and projects and to elevate activist traditions that EA lacks the resources to assess and threatens to squelch. The contributors reveal the weakness inherent within the ready-made, top-down solutions that EA offers in response to many global problems-and offers in their place substantial descriptions of more meaningful and just social engagement.
This book is now available for pre-order and will be released on January 31, 2023.
Call for Applications: Law Lecturers' Workshop
Sean Butler and Raffael Fasel from the Cambridge Centre for Animal Rights Law are providing a 5-day Law Lecturers' Workshop on May 8-12, 2023 in Burlington, VT for those interested in teaching animal rights law at a University that does not currently have an animal law program. In collaboration with the Vermont Law and Graduate School, this Workshop is providing strategies on creating a syllabus, course materials and readings, and an opportunity to build a custom program. Applications are accepted through December 23rd, 2022.
Sean Butler and Raffael Fasel from the Cambridge Centre for Animal Rights Law are providing a 5-day Law Lecturers' Workshop on May 8-12, 2023 in Burlington, VT for those interested in teaching animal rights law at a University that does not currently have an animal law program. In collaboration with the Vermont Law and Graduate School, this Workshop is providing strategies on creating a syllabus, course materials and readings, and an opportunity to build a custom program. Applications are accepted through December 23rd, 2022.
International Updates
Century-old Irish Foxhunt has Shut Down
Based in Counties Kilkenny and Tipperary, The Kilmoganny Foxhounds has reportedly gone out of business as a result of a “huge increase in insurance costs.” The Irish Field has reported that the hunt had “no other option but to disband” due to running costs. Its pack of sixty hounds targeted foxes twice per week for 104 years.
Based in Counties Kilkenny and Tipperary, The Kilmoganny Foxhounds has reportedly gone out of business as a result of a “huge increase in insurance costs.” The Irish Field has reported that the hunt had “no other option but to disband” due to running costs. Its pack of sixty hounds targeted foxes twice per week for 104 years.
U.S. FDA Approves First Lab-Grown Meat
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has completed a pre-market consultation for UPSIDE Foods, a California-based company that makes meat from cultured chicken cells. UPSIDE Foods is the first lab-grown meat company to receive this safety clearance from the FDA.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has completed a pre-market consultation for UPSIDE Foods, a California-based company that makes meat from cultured chicken cells. UPSIDE Foods is the first lab-grown meat company to receive this safety clearance from the FDA.
Stray Dogs in Qatar Abused as the World Cup Begins
Qatar, the host of the 2022 World Cup, is rounding up stray dogs and taking them to shelters where they are reportedly being euthanized. The country’s strays are regularly subject to abuse and attacks, but since the World Cup’s arrival authorities have been taking people’s companion animals as a form of “pest control.” Shelters in Doha, Qatar’s capital, are now over capacity with thousands of dogs.
Qatar, the host of the 2022 World Cup, is rounding up stray dogs and taking them to shelters where they are reportedly being euthanized. The country’s strays are regularly subject to abuse and attacks, but since the World Cup’s arrival authorities have been taking people’s companion animals as a form of “pest control.” Shelters in Doha, Qatar’s capital, are now over capacity with thousands of dogs.
U.S. Senator Cory Booker Announces Legislation to Hold Factory Farms Accountable
United States Senator Cory Booker announced the Industrial Agriculture Accountability Act. The Act would hold factory farms liable for disaster mitigation and establish new protections for farmed animals by, for example, requiring that industrial operators submit disaster preparedness plans, ensuring that industrial operators are not using the worst depopulation and slaughter practices, and mandating that corporations pay to cover the costs of preparing for and responding to disaster events.
United States Senator Cory Booker announced the Industrial Agriculture Accountability Act. The Act would hold factory farms liable for disaster mitigation and establish new protections for farmed animals by, for example, requiring that industrial operators submit disaster preparedness plans, ensuring that industrial operators are not using the worst depopulation and slaughter practices, and mandating that corporations pay to cover the costs of preparing for and responding to disaster events.
Plans to Ban Bullfighting Dropped in France Amid Withdrawal of Bill
A push to ban bullfighting in France has taken a major step back after the withdrawal of a bill that would have effectuated that change. On November 24th, the French National Assembly was expected to take France’s first-ever vote on a proposed ban of the practice, but opponents obstructed the vote with several amendments. Eventually, the lawmaker who had originally put forward the bill withdrew it. Though this outcome does not eliminate the possibility of a vote in the near future, even some animal rights groups agree there is little chance of a ban as many politicians fear repercussions from rural voters.
A push to ban bullfighting in France has taken a major step back after the withdrawal of a bill that would have effectuated that change. On November 24th, the French National Assembly was expected to take France’s first-ever vote on a proposed ban of the practice, but opponents obstructed the vote with several amendments. Eventually, the lawmaker who had originally put forward the bill withdrew it. Though this outcome does not eliminate the possibility of a vote in the near future, even some animal rights groups agree there is little chance of a ban as many politicians fear repercussions from rural voters.
China Opens World’s Largest Pig Farm, Ready to Slaughter One Million Pigs Per Year
Ezhou, a city in China’s Hubei province, has opened the world’s largest pig farm, with the capacity to slaughter 1.2 million pigs per year. The skyscraper-sized farm is a response to China’s extremely high demand for pork, the most sought-after animal protein in the country. Critics are noting, however, that this ultra-industrial agriculture model will increase the likelihood of disease outbreaks. Local farmers are also expressing worry that an odour issue will arise once it is entirely operational.
Ezhou, a city in China’s Hubei province, has opened the world’s largest pig farm, with the capacity to slaughter 1.2 million pigs per year. The skyscraper-sized farm is a response to China’s extremely high demand for pork, the most sought-after animal protein in the country. Critics are noting, however, that this ultra-industrial agriculture model will increase the likelihood of disease outbreaks. Local farmers are also expressing worry that an odour issue will arise once it is entirely operational.
Queensland Animal Activists Call for a Ban on Koala Cuddles at Theme Parks
Animal activists are urging theme parks across the Gold Coast of Queensland to stop selling “koala cuddles” to tourists, describing the practice as animal cruelty. Holding koalas for photos has already been banned in New South Wales and Victoria but Queensland’s Environment Minister says there are no plans for them to follow suit.
Animal activists are urging theme parks across the Gold Coast of Queensland to stop selling “koala cuddles” to tourists, describing the practice as animal cruelty. Holding koalas for photos has already been banned in New South Wales and Victoria but Queensland’s Environment Minister says there are no plans for them to follow suit.
U.K. Show is the Subject of Over 17,000 Animal Welfare Complaints
The United Kingdom’s Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has received over 17,000 complaints from viewers over animals being used in challenges on the television show “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!” RSPCA chief executive Chris Sherwood said: “Sadly, we are once again seeing many live animals on our TV screens put in situations that could compromise their welfare for a quick laugh.”
The United Kingdom’s Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has received over 17,000 complaints from viewers over animals being used in challenges on the television show “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!” RSPCA chief executive Chris Sherwood said: “Sadly, we are once again seeing many live animals on our TV screens put in situations that could compromise their welfare for a quick laugh.”
Claims Made that New E.U. Project Will Enhance Animal Welfare in Fish Farming
Cure4Aqua has been awarded €4.8 million by the European Union’s (EU) Horizon Europe programme to develop new strategies to combat aquatic fish diseases through advanced prophylaxis and technologies for early disease detection.
Cure4Aqua has been awarded €4.8 million by the European Union’s (EU) Horizon Europe programme to develop new strategies to combat aquatic fish diseases through advanced prophylaxis and technologies for early disease detection.
Other Updates
COP27 Deemed a Disappointment in Addressing Animal Agriculture’s Role in Climate Change
Many are calling the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) a “disappointment” in addressing the role of animal agriculture in climate change. Canada’s official delegation to COP27 contained representatives of the meat and dairy industries. Although the conference welcomed its first-ever Food Systems Pavilion, there were no major talks surrounding animal agriculture. The menu also featured animal-based dishes, including a beef medallion dish, a seafood platter, and a salmon dish.
Many are calling the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) a “disappointment” in addressing the role of animal agriculture in climate change. Canada’s official delegation to COP27 contained representatives of the meat and dairy industries. Although the conference welcomed its first-ever Food Systems Pavilion, there were no major talks surrounding animal agriculture. The menu also featured animal-based dishes, including a beef medallion dish, a seafood platter, and a salmon dish.
Sudbury Animal Shelter Overwhelmed with Abandonments, Suspends Intakes
Sudbury’s Manitoulin Pet Rescue has temporarily suspended their intakes due to an unprecedented increase in abandonments. The organization does not have a physical location—it cares for dogs and cats entirely through a foster program—but it says it would be helpful if surrounding municipalities could collaborate on building a shelter.
Sudbury’s Manitoulin Pet Rescue has temporarily suspended their intakes due to an unprecedented increase in abandonments. The organization does not have a physical location—it cares for dogs and cats entirely through a foster program—but it says it would be helpful if surrounding municipalities could collaborate on building a shelter.
Updated Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Goats Released
The National Farm Animal Care Council and the Canadian National Goat Federation have released the 2022 update of the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Goats. This edition replaces its 2003 predecessor and provides several enhanced requirements and recommendations for the treatment standards of goats on Canadian farms. Melissa Speirs, the Humane Canada representative on the goat Code Development Committee, noted that “this Code reflects the industry’s progress on welfare since the 2003 Code and incorporates current research on goat welfare.”
The National Farm Animal Care Council and the Canadian National Goat Federation have released the 2022 update of the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Goats. This edition replaces its 2003 predecessor and provides several enhanced requirements and recommendations for the treatment standards of goats on Canadian farms. Melissa Speirs, the Humane Canada representative on the goat Code Development Committee, noted that “this Code reflects the industry’s progress on welfare since the 2003 Code and incorporates current research on goat welfare.”
Sperm Whale Found Dead Due to Consumption of 150 Kilograms of Fishing Gear
A sperm whale off the coast of Nova Scotia starved to death due to having consumed 150 kilograms of fishing gear. Executive Director of Marine Animal Response Society reported to the press that “[t]his would have been an incredibly horrific way, and a traumatic way for this animal to slowly die.”
A sperm whale off the coast of Nova Scotia starved to death due to having consumed 150 kilograms of fishing gear. Executive Director of Marine Animal Response Society reported to the press that “[t]his would have been an incredibly horrific way, and a traumatic way for this animal to slowly die.”
Nunavut Dog Euthanized Due to Rabies Suspicion
A Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, dog has been euthanized as a result of a rabies suspicion. The dog was displaying symptoms of the virus at the time of euthanization, according to a November 24th release from authorities.
A Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, dog has been euthanized as a result of a rabies suspicion. The dog was displaying symptoms of the virus at the time of euthanization, according to a November 24th release from authorities.
Toronto Humane Society Robbed Day Before Giving Tuesday
A van from the basement garage of the Toronto Humane Society used to rescue and transport injured animals and to deliver pet food to those in need was stolen on the eve of Giving Tuesday. Security footage captured two men breaking in with a crow bar. No animals or staff were harmed. Police attended and are investigating.
A van from the basement garage of the Toronto Humane Society used to rescue and transport injured animals and to deliver pet food to those in need was stolen on the eve of Giving Tuesday. Security footage captured two men breaking in with a crow bar. No animals or staff were harmed. Police attended and are investigating.
New Report Reveals More than 5000 Species are at Some Risk of Extinction in Canada
According to a report released on November 29th, more than 5000 wild species are at some risk of extinction in Canada. Michael Brewster, the director of policy for nature and biodiversity for the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, said the new report paints a “stark image” of the state of biodiversity in Canada.
According to a report released on November 29th, more than 5000 wild species are at some risk of extinction in Canada. Michael Brewster, the director of policy for nature and biodiversity for the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, said the new report paints a “stark image” of the state of biodiversity in Canada.
Canadian Partnership Invests Millions in Plant-Based Seafood
The Government of Canada and Canadian food companies Konscious Foods, Merit Functional Foods, and Canadian Pacifico Seaweeds have invested $11.3 million to support the development of over twenty plant-based seafood alternatives incorporating ingredients grown and processed in Canada.
The Government of Canada and Canadian food companies Konscious Foods, Merit Functional Foods, and Canadian Pacifico Seaweeds have invested $11.3 million to support the development of over twenty plant-based seafood alternatives incorporating ingredients grown and processed in Canada.