Fish play diverse and significant roles in our society. Here in Canada, they’re the third most popular pet after cats and dogs, and the second most common research model after mice. Millions are caught recreationally across the country every year, while at least a billion more are farmed and caught commercially. Fish are also essential …
News Category: Farm
New Canadian welfare standards for goats released
It has been nearly 20 years since Canada updated its welfare standards for raising goats. The recent update to the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Goats includes changes that will improve the welfare of goats across Canada. There are approximately 230,000 goats in Canada. Some goats are pets, but most are raised …
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News Category: Farm
On first anniversary of provincial mink farming phase-out, polling confirms British Columbians agree with government decision
In November 2021, the B.C. government made the historic announcement to phase out mink farms in the province. At the time of this announcement, a temporary ban on mink breeding was already in place as of July 2021. Under the phase-out plan, the breeding of mink was permanently banned. By April 2023, there must not …
News Category: Farm
Tips for an inclusive holiday meal
With numerous holiday and cultural celebrations this season, many of us are turning our attention towards planning a festive meal for our family and friends. Many families and friend groups now include someone who chooses a plant-based diet. We’ve put together the following tips to help you celebrate the holidays and ensure there is something …
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News Category: Farm
The truth about enriched cages
You may have seen the label ‘enriched cages’ on egg cartons at the grocery store. It may seem like laying hens were given many environmental enrichments to improve their welfare. But is this the case? Do enriched cages improve hen welfare? The conventional way of raising laying hens In 2021, 56.52% of laying hens in …
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News Category: Farm
What does higher-welfare chicken mean?
In Canada, the Codes of Practice for the care and handling of farm animals set the minimum standard of care expected from all Canadian farmers. Higher-welfare refers to raising animals to higher standards than those in the Codes of Practice. But what exactly does this mean for chickens raised for meat? Animal Welfare Approved, Animal …
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News Category: Farm
Support the petition for video surveillance in slaughter facilities
Update: The federal petition for video surveillance in slaughter facilities has now closed. More than 9,000 Canadians voiced their concern about this issue. Thank you to everyone who spoke up for farm animals – the petition is currently awaiting government response. Original story: July 14, 2022 The BC SPCA is urging Canadians to sign an …
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Three ways to be an animal ambassador at farmers’ markets
With summer around the corner, farmers’ markets across the province are gearing up for a busy season ahead. Farmers’ markets provide a wonderful opportunity to learn about where our food comes from and how it is produced. You can help improve the lives of farm animals by making informed food choices, all while supporting our …
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News Category: Farm
Top five misleading food labels
Food labels are often one of the only places you can learn more about where your food comes from. If you eat meat, eggs or dairy and want to make humane choices, it’s important to understand what food labels mean. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is responsible for labelling requirements of food in Canada, …
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News Category: Farm
Speak out to prevent animal suffering at new rodeo proposed for Lower Mainland
Update: Over 4,500 people signed the pledge to speak out against a new rodeo in the Township of Langley. This pledge demonstrates that rodeo does not align with the values of many British Columbians. In June, we submitted a letter to the Mayor and Council of the Township of Langley also expressing our concerns with …
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