This past spring, Parkdale-High Park MP Peggy Nash introduced Bill C-232, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (cruelty to animals).This bill would remove animal cruelty crimes from the property section of the Criminal Code, recognizing animals as beings that can feel pain.

1. Animals are sentient beings, capable of feeling pain, and are not property;
2.Stray and wild animals are not sufficiently protected by animal cruelty laws under the property section of the Criminal code of Canada.
3. It is imperative that those who abuse animals face conviction and significant penalty;
4. Loopholes in existing legislation too often allow those who abuse animals to escape penalty;

http://www.peggynash.ndp.ca/post/support-animal-welfare-this-holiday-season​

http://www.parl.gc.ca/LegisInfo/BillDetails.aspx?billId=5088540&Mode=1&Language=E