The BC SPCA is applauding an announcement made by the provincial government on Feb. 13 that it is considering new licensing and inspection rules for dog and cat breeders in B.C.
“We have been in conversation with government on this issue and we are very pleased with their commitment to move forward quickly to prevent puppy mill operators and other unscrupulous breeders from continuing to inflict animal suffering,” says Marcie Moriarty, chief prevention and enforcement officer for the BC SPCA.
Moriarty says the BC SPCA would ideally like to see a system that not only requires licensing but also includes a proactive inspection process to ensure that standards of animal welfare are upheld.
“We’re excited that Premier Christy Clark and her government are taking a stand on this issue and we look forward to further consultation and discussion.”
Moriarty highlighted the significance of MLA Jane Thornthwaite’s 2012 private member’s bill on Standards of Care for Breeders of Companion Animals for its role in advancing government and public attention to this serious issue.
The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a not-for-profit organization reliant on public donations. Our mission is to protect and enhance the quality of life for domestic, farm and wild animals in B.C.