Revised By-Law proposal for Town of Huntsville, ON

With the recent news of the horrific conditions of a local dog sled company I feel this is the time to create a by-law that protects not just circus animals but all animals used by businesses for profit. Here is the updated PROPOSED by-law I'm sending forward to the Town of Huntsville. [*make note of exemptions that protect those companies that do a great job of looking after animal welfare] Animal Performance and Entertainment DEFINITION “Animal” means a mammal, bird or reptile. “Performance” includes circus, public show, exhibition, travelling zoo, and carnival “Entertainment” includes dog sledding, equine trail rides, equine sleigh rides, and rodeos PROHIBITIONS 1. No person may conduct, operate or carry on a Performance in which an Animal performs, fights or participates 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 1. It is permissible for a person to conduct, operate or carry on a Performance or Entertainment that includes an Animal[s] providing there has been no offense made under the provisions of points 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 - programs operated by 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 - rodeos, and exhibition or performance involving horses or in which individuals ride horses or ponies