Text and video by Mike Parker
On Sunday, local pet owners gathered on the steps of City Hall to raise awareness about animal cruelty and to rally support for legislation that would crack down on animal abusers.
The rally was one of a series held across Canada on Sunday to raise support for Bill C-229. Introduced by Liberal MP Mark Holland, the legislation would see people convicted of animal abuse face jail time of up to five years and an unlimited fine for indictable offenses. People convicted of a summary conviction could face 18 months in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
Bill C-229 would also make it illegal to train animals to fight and to bet on staged animal fights. And it extends legal protection to wild or stray animals. But it does not change limit a person’s right to hunt or trap.
Current legislation was introduced in 1892 and considers animals to be property. Under existing laws, it is difficult to prosecute people who kill or abuse animals because the courts first have to prove intent and that the animal belonged to an owner.
You can see a quick video from Sunday’s rally below. For additional information see the Pet Speak Out web site.
Serf City 
Wow! What a great piece- so informative and great 2 C the ralliers out there! Thanx so much for helping to raise awareness on this issue and the great vid! Keep up the great work serf city!
Thanx! Paula
Stop Animal Cruelty in Canada with effective legislation!
Thank you for the kind words, Paula.