Here are the questions I have submitted to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, along with the motivations behind them:

Breed associations like the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), recognized by the Government of Canada under the Animal Pedigree Act (APA), have the exclusive authority to authorize registrations. However, it can be challenging for the CKC to oversee the activities of individual dog breeders nationwide, as CKC does not perform on-site inspections of breeding facilities to ensure compliance with animal care standards, or to even sanction breeders. The welfare and treatment of companion animals remains a significant concern for numerous animal organizations in Canada as highlighted by numerous media reports and veterinarians (i), and the absence of licensing requirements for breeders of mixed-breed (non-purebred) dogs exacerbates the issue. Government-issued permits for breeders of purebred and mixed-breed (non-purebred) dogs help to protect Canadian consumers when purchasing animals, to promote the welfare of companion animals, and to ensure the government receives its fair share of revenue. Currently, only Quebec and New Brunswick require dog and cat breeders to undergo an annual inspection and obtain a permit issued by the province. While the Ontario government introduced the Preventing Unethical Puppy Sales Act (PUPS Act) in December 2023, it does not require breeders to be licensed, making it nearly impossible to track their identities and locations.

Will Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada advocate for more provincial authorities to require government-issued permits for breeders of purebred and mixed-breed (non-purebred) dogs?

In 2021, the UK government has set minimum standards for classified websites to comply with (ii and iii). By implementing minimum standards for classified websites to adhere to, it would facilitate the work of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and protect Canadian consumers. With the large number of animals sold online, these standards should mandate a thorough review and approval of pet advertisements before publication, in line with the Animal Pedigree Act (APA) and the Species at Risk Act. The APA includes provisions that make it an offense to sell an animal as 'registered' or 'purebred' if it does not comply with the Act. Limited resources constrain the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's capacity to inspect and lay charges accordingly. However, there are many classified websites in Canada, and the most popular classified site, Kijiji Canada, publishes pet sale advertisements without reviewing them for APA compliance before publication.

Will Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada encourage provinces to implement minimum standards for classified websites to adhere to?

I will keep you updated on the outcomes.

Barbara

See also:

12 Alarming Reasons Our Government Should Do More for Animals and the People Who Love Them

Answer from the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Calls to change giving away pets online