By signing this petition you are asking the municipalities of Muskoka to create a by-law that prohibits circus companies that use animals [exotic, wild, or domestic] from doing business in our towns.

In addition, you are requesting  additional by-laws be created that protect against ALL animals being used for entertainment purposes at the expense of their welfare.

The following suggested by-law regulations have been adopted from the current Animal Welfare by-laws of the city of Kamloops BC, City of Victoria, the City of Sault Ste. Marie, the Town of Cobourg and the District of North Vancouver BC and The Town of Huntsville.

Animal Performance and Entertainment

DEFINITIONS

 “Animal” means a mammal, bird or reptile. [exotic, wild, domestic]

“Performance” includes circus, public show, exhibition, travelling zoo, and carnival

 “Entertainment” includes dog sledding/carting, equine trail rides, and equine sleigh rides

 PROHIBITIONS

1. No person may conduct, operate or carry on a Performance in which an Animal performs, fights or participates in acts for the amusement or entertainment of an audience.

2. No person may conduct, operate or carry on a Performance or Entertainment which exploits an Animal such that it is being used or treated in an inhumane manner for profit or advantage.

3. No person may cause cruelty to an Animal respecting a Performance or Entertainment.

 EXEMPTIONS

Providing there is no offense made under the Prohibitions 2., or 3., nothing in this by-law shall prohibit or restrict an educational display or program offered by an organization accredited by the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums, an institution of education for research, study, or teaching purposes, programs and operations of an animal sanctuary, a display or showing of animals in an agricultural fair or pet show, dog sledding/carting, and exhibition or performance involving horses or in which individuals ride horses or ponies, to conduct, operate or carry on a Performance or Entertainment that includes an Animal.