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Award-winning animal welfare advocate steps in as new CEO
Wednesday, Jul 13, 2011On July 4, the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) welcomed its new Chief Executive Officer, Barbara Cartwright. Ms. Cartwright brings more than 17 years of experience as a professional advocate for animal welfare, conservation, and humane education. Her work has spanned over Africa, Australia, North America and Europe. “I am thrilled to begin work at the CFHS as the new ...
Lifetime ban on keeping livestock for Manitoba hog farmer
Thursday, Jun 09, 2011Last week Martin Grenier, a Manitoba hog farmer, was banned for life from owning or caring for livestock after pleading guilty to charges stemming from one of the province’s (and perhaps Canada’s) worst cases of animal cruelty in recent history. RCMP and Manitoba Agriculture officials had raided Grenier’s barn in June 2010 and found hundreds of dead pigs and 2,200 more living ...
Toronto to tighten standards for pet stores?
Monday, Jun 06, 2011The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) is encouraged by a recent recommendation made by the City of Toronto’s Licensing and Standards Committee for the city to restrict the sale of cats and dogs in pet stores to only those animals coming from breeders certified by the City of Toronto. As always, pet stores would continue to be allowed to host animals available for adoption from ...
Provincial & territorial animal protection laws: the good, the bad and the ugly
Thursday, Jun 02, 2011The widely varying quality of animal protection laws in Canada’s provinces and territories has been brought to attention once again with the recent release of the 2011 Canadian Animal Protection Laws Rankings by the Animal Legal Defense fund. It’s the fourth such annual report to compare and rank Canada’s provincial and territorial animal protection laws. This year, top ...
Ontario dog shooting case highlights problems with irresponsible pet ownership
Thursday, May 26, 2011The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) is deeply concerned about a recent incident where a man allegedly killed several dogs by gunshot. A 25-year-old man has been charged with animal cruelty and firearms offences, after four dogs were found dead in his Clarington, Ontario, home on May 22. Citing the death of his young puppy from parvovirus, a contagious and often fatal illness in ...
Attention artists: design a logo, help fight puppy mills
Thursday, May 19, 2011The CFHS’s upcoming “Finding Fido” campaign will help Canadians make smart, humane decisions about getting a new pet. The campaign aims to:• Counter the growing online marketing of pets, especially puppies, coming from sketchy, substandard breeders• Discourage the purchase of pets, especially dogs, from pet stores and brokers• Promote adoption of pets from ...
Teach a child, save a dog during Dog Bite Prevention Week
Sunday, May 15, 2011This week, May 15-21, is International Dog Bite Prevention Week. The majority of dog bite cases involve children. We encourage all Canadians to help prevent dog bites by sharing these free resources with any parents, child care providers, school teachers, or humane educators they know. International Dog Bite Prevention Week is a project of Doggone Safe, which is aiming to teach 50,000 ...
3 questions to ask your candidates during the election campaign
Tuesday, Apr 26, 2011This federal election campaign, let’s be sure to all ask our candidates where they stand on animal welfare. Here are a few suggested questions to ask: “If elected, will you work to: Strengthen the animal cruelty sections of the Criminal Code by closing the loopholes that currently prevent the prosecution of many serious cases of animal abuse and neglect? Make improvements to ...
Improper euthanasia practices at Montreal pound raise concern
Thursday, Apr 21, 2011The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) is very concerned about recent reports of improper euthanasia practices at the Berger Blanc animal shelter in Montreal. This shelter, run by a private company which handles animal control for the majority of boroughs in the Montreal area, was the subject of a recent investigative story by a Radio-Canada journalist. Undercover video footage ...
Humane food choices for Easter
Monday, Apr 11, 2011Humane food choices for Easter Preparing a big meal this Easter weekend? Please think about farm animal welfare when making your food choices. The majority of animal foods sold in Canada come from farms where animals suffer stressful conditions such as overcrowding and confinement in small spaces for most of their lives. If you choose to buy meat, egg or dairy products, you can support ...
April 10 to 16 is National Wildlife Week!
Sunday, Apr 10, 2011April 10 to 16 is National Wildlife Week! Canadians, here are two ways you can help wild animals today: - Learn to live in harmony with urban wildlife like raccoons, squirrels and skunks — while keeping them from invading your home — at http://cfhs.ca/wild/urban_wildlife/ - Ask your federal election candidates what they will do to protect critical wildlife habitat from ...
CFHS applauds B.C. move to strengthen province’s animal cruelty law
Thursday, Apr 07, 2011The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies applauds the B.C. government’s plan to increase penalties for people convicted of animal abuse under provincial law, and to ask the federal government to strengthen animal cruelty provisions in the Criminal Code. The government announced April 5th that it will increase maximum penalties in the B.C. Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act from ...
Now online: list of livestock haulers fined for breaking humane transport rules
Thursday, Mar 31, 2011The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has recently begun listing details of its enforcement activities online, including the number of fines issued to companies in violation of humane transportation regulations and a list of repeat offenders. The information is posted at www.inspection.gc.ca/english/agen/transp/comp/pene.shtml. Canadians have been outraged over the past year by reports of ...
Canadian humane societies unveil two innovative programs to help pets and people
Thursday, Mar 17, 2011The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies would like applaud two of our member organizations for recently introducing innovative and urgently needed programs to help pets and people. As of last month, victims of domestic violence in New Brunswick now have a safe place to take their pets when leaving abusive homes, thanks to a new program headed by the New Brunswick SPCA. The “Safe For ...
Slaughter of sled dogs in BC raises valid concerns about unregulated industry
Thursday, Feb 03, 2011The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) is troubled by recent reports of a mass cull of 100 dogs by a dog sled touring company in Whistler, BC. We believe this incident raises valid questions about the unregulated use of animals for profit in industries like the dog sledding industry. It also highlights the need to improve Canada’s animal cruelty law and its enforcement. ...
Over 1 million pets adopted through “Home for the Holidays” program!
Wednesday, Jan 12, 2011Over 1 million pets have now been adopted out of shelters and into loving, forever homes through the 2010 Iams Home 4 The Holidays campaign. Thank you to everyone who helped save an animal by adopting, convincing others to adopt, or clicking to donate meals to homeless pets in shelters. Animals in shelters still need our help, so please keep encouraging everyone you know to adopt pets ...
2011: Year of the Cat
Wednesday, Jan 05, 20112011 has been declared Year of the Cat by Care for Cats, a network of cat welfare advocates including the CFHS. We’ll use this year to bring attention to what governments, animal welfare organizations and individuals can do to improve the lives of Canada’s millions of cats. You can learn more about Canada’s stray cat overpopulation crisis by watching “Cat Crazed”, a ...
Atlantic organizations: do you have a humane education project in need of funding?
Thursday, Dec 16, 2010The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies is accepting applications for funding from the Frederic A. McGrand Trust for 2011. Grants from this trust are awarded every year to animal welfare organizations in Atlantic Canada for humane education projects. The deadline for applications is January 31, 2011. For more information, please click here.
Help shelter animals, with just a click of your mouse!
Wednesday, Dec 15, 2010As the 2010 Iams Home 4 The Holidays campaign rolls on — with over 761,000 shelter animals adopted worldwide through the program so far — we’d like to remind you that you can still help shelter animals in need, even if you aren’t able to adopt! Please help by: Visiting www.facebook.com/iams and “liking” the messages, videos and photos posted by the “Adoption Angels” (new ...
In December, travel with your pet and support animal welfare across Canada
Thursday, Nov 25, 2010Think pets and hotels don’t go together? Think again! At dozens of pet-friendly hotels participating in the Purrrfect Place to Paws program, guests can bring their furry friends along for the stay. Plus, Pacrim Hospitality makes a donation to the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) for every night booked in participating hotels through the program. For the month of December ...
Dig deeper with “Animal Welfare in Focus”
Thursday, Nov 04, 2010Check out the fall/winter edition of Animal Welfare in Focus, our full-length newsletter that offers in-depth articles, commentary and insight into key animal welfare issues of the day. In this issue, we look at the Canadian horse slaughter controversy, victories for animals around the world in 2010, “humane” food certification, progress on provincial animal protection laws, and ...
Higher fines for inhumane transport of limited use without proper inspection
Wednesday, Nov 03, 2010The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced on October 29th that it will now charge fines of up to $10,000 to livestock haulers who violate regulations meant to protect animals under the Health of Animals Act. This figure is more than double the previous maximum penalty. The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) has for years been calling on the government to improve its ...
Adoption option takes centre stage
Monday, Oct 04, 2010Each year in Canada, over one quarter of a million homeless cats and dogs are temporarily housed in animal shelters. Their lives depend on one thing: people choosing to share their homes with a loving animal in need. That’s why the CFHS is once again acting as the lead Canadian partner for Iams’ “Home 4 The Holidays” shelter pet adoption drive. This annual campaign, now in ...
Take action: help call government to task on lax enforcement of livestock rules
Thursday, Aug 19, 2010Photo courtesy of Canadians for the Ethical Treatment of Farm Animals August 19, 2010 In 2008, the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies called on Canada’s Auditor General to conduct an independent audit of the government’s capacity to ensure the humane treatment of farm animals during transport and slaughter. We took this action in response to numerous reports of blatant regulatory ...
Cities seeking to restrict pet store animal trade
Friday, Aug 13, 2010Learn more CFHS… position statement on sources for acquiring a pet About puppy mills Pet Store Doublespeak: What pet store staff might tell you and what it really means, from the Humane Society of the U.S. (This is an American resource, but much of the information applies equally well to the Canadian market.) 05/10/10×Update: Richmond to ban sale of dogs ...
Must See! “No Country for Animals” on Global TV
Thursday, Jul 29, 2010If you missed the July 28th airing of “No Country for Animals” on Global TV, you can watch the documentary online here. All Canadians need to see this documentary, which touches on crucial animal welfare challenges in our country — from abusive puppy mills to the overcrowded abattoir-bound trucks where livestock can go for days without food or water. Please watch, and forward the link ...
Update on horse slaughter
Wednesday, Jul 28, 2010More than three months have passed since the release of video footage documenting inhumane slaughter practices at two Canadian horse slaughter plants. Yet it appears that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has still not taken any disciplinary or corrective action against the plants in question. In April, the CFHS and the BC SPCA sent the CFIA a detailed report outlining several serious ...
Horse deaths in Stampede highlight abuse inherent in rodeos, says CFHS
Wednesday, Jul 14, 2010(Ottawa) – Following the death of four horses during Calgary Stampede events, the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) is speaking out against the cruelty inherent in rodeos held across Canada. How many more animals will die this year? “While the death of 4 horses in 2 days has raised eyebrows, the sad reality is this is par for the course for the Stampede,” says Shelagh ...
Tell your neighbours: This is a humane community!
Friday, May 14, 2010The CFHS has produced a colourful, 8.5 × 11” poster that you can post in your window to signal that “This is a Humane Community! We report suspected animal abuse.” The back of the poster tells you how to recognize the sign of animal abuse and how to report it. Click here to order your poster today. front / back
Action Alert: demand that government address inhumane horse slaughter
Saturday, May 08, 2010Act Now! Read more and find contact information for the Minister of Agriculture and other key officials here. May 8, 2010 The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies has serious concerns about horse slaughter practices in Canada and we are calling on the public to write to Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz to demand improvements to the monitoring of the slaughter of all animals at ...
Take action for a better animal cruelty law at stopanimalabuse.ca
Wednesday, May 05, 2010It’s hard to imagine how people can abuse animals, isn’t it? How can someone look into the eyes of a dog, a cat, a horse or any other animal and deliberately cause the animal pain — or leave the animal to starve to death? Incredibly, such things happen almost every day across Canada. And our archaic federal animal cruelty law does little to stop the abuse. The Canadian ...
CFHS announces recipients of the 2009 Volunteer Awards
Thursday, Feb 18, 2010The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies is honoured to award certificates of appreciation to nominated CFHS member society volunteers across Canada. Award recipients are being recognized for their contribution and dedication to the well-being of animals in their community. Some of the work completed includes photography, scheduling appointments, newsletter editing, event planning, driving ...
Nearly 1.4 million adopted through Iams Home 4 the Holidays
Monday, Jan 18, 2010After setting its most aggressive pet adoption goal to-date – Iams Home 4 the Holidays (IH4TH) announced today that 1,363,638 million animals were adopted through the global program. In Canada, more than 145 animal shelters participated in this annual adoption drive with more than 3,500 animal organizations participating world wide. The following animals were adopted this year: ...
Make your new year’s commitment a promise to help animals
Thursday, Dec 31, 2009As the hustle and bustle of the holidays begins to dwindle, many Canadians are making their new year’s resolutions. This year, the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies encourages all Canadians to kick off their new year with a vow to the animals. Make your new year’s commitment a promise to help animals across Canada. This year, the CFHS will continue its commitment to help increase ...
Public should not let actions of one humane society affect their views of shelters
Monday, Nov 30, 2009While the recent events at the Toronto Humane Society are still being investigated, it is important the Toronto community and communities across Canada understand the actions of one humane society or Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) do not reflect the management and level of animal care at other shelters across Canada. The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) ...
Parliament supports development of Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare
Monday, Nov 16, 2009On November 6th, the House of Commons unanimously adopted a motion which calls on the Canadian government to support (in principle) the development of a Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare (UDAW). A campaign has been spearheaded by the World Society for the Protection of Animals over the past few years to convince governments worldwide to support this declaration. The motion was passed ...
Hartz donates over 100,000 pet items to animal shelters in Canada
Tuesday, Nov 10, 2009“This donation has given us amazing momentum” said Tiffiny Koback, Shelter Director at the Saskatoon SPCA after accepting over a thousand donated pet items into the already cramped animal shelter. “It can sometimes be a struggle to keep these items in stock for the animals and for fundraising. Now we won’t have to worry about this for months to come.” The Canadian Federation of ...
Iams Home 4 the Holidays pet adoption campaign launches
Friday, Oct 02, 2009The Iams Home 4 the Holidays (IH4TH) pet adoption campaign has officially launched and the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies is a proud partner of this program. This year, the program hopes to find forever homes for 1.5 million orphaned pets across North America during the holiday season. Pet parent Hilary Swank is supporting this program as the official campaign ambassador and will ...
Humane education should be taught at home too
Friday, Sep 18, 2009While many humane societies and SPCAs conduct educational school visits, humane education has not yet become an integrated part of school curriculums. That’s why it’s important to re-enforce the value of animal care and compassion in the home with the proper humane education materials. Humane education is a preventative strategy aimed at instilling empathy and caring in children as they ...
The importance of microchipping
Friday, Aug 07, 2009Microchipping your pet is one of the most important and responsible actions that you can take as a pet owner. Hundreds of pets end up at pounds and shelters each year because they do not have appropriate and up to date identification. Microchipping is an effective way to make sure your pet can be returned to you should their tags be lost. Pet owners should make sure their pets are implanted with ...
Stay overnight with your pet for a chance to win!
Monday, Jul 20, 2009With over 50 pet-friendly hotels across North America, you and your pet are sure to find a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Book your Purrrfect Place to Paws accommodation this summer and you will be entered into a draw for a complimentary 5 night stay at a Pacrim hotel (no purchase required). For a limited time only, Pacrim Hospitality will donate $10.00 from each night booked ...
Reader’s Digest brings attention to Canada’s puppy mill problem
Friday, Jul 10, 2009In the July issue of Reader’s Digest, author Ray Argyle writes about the heartache that he and his partner went through when they purchased their first dog. Impulsively responding to a newspaper ad, Ray and his partner Deborah welcomed into their home a wheaten terrier they named Rory. Unfortunately, because they didn’t do proper research before they purchased a new pet, they were left ...
Making Adoption Everyone’s First Option
Friday, Jun 26, 2009- CFHS working together with Petfinder.com The CFHS and Petfinder.com have partnered together to help animals waiting to be adopted in Canada. Petfinder.com is a website dedicated to featuring animals awaiting adoption currently in the care of shelters or rescue societies across Canada, the US and Mexico. Because of their strong commitment to adoption and the work of our member societies, ...
New website devoted to Keeping Animals Safe
Wednesday, Jun 24, 2009The Canadian Federation of Humane societies is happy to support a new website launched by the Toronto Wildlife Centre and the Canadian Indoor Cats Alliance – www.keepanimalssafe.ca. The site hopes to educate people not only on the dangers of letting cats roam free outdoors, but also on the impact that outdoor cats have on wildlife. The site offers information on why it is important to keep ...
Talking to children about animals in entertainment
Monday, Jun 15, 2009As children wrap up the last few weeks of school, many families are finalizing their summer plans. Summer camps, local festivals and family vacations are often a great way to spend time together. For some, the summer also includes a trip to the circus but be careful, the entertainment value is not all it’s cracked up to be. Before you purchase your ticket to the circus, think about the ...
There’s no excuse for animal abuse!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009Help us speak up for animals. Most Canadians aren’t aware of just how hard it is to put a stop to the abuse of innocent animals. The truth is the animal cruelty section of the Criminal Code hasn’t been changed substantially since 1892 and no longer reflects societal views of animals. This is why we need your help. Tell the government you want to see stronger federal animal cruelty laws. ...
Canadian Pet Lovers Encouraged to Find a Friend For Life
Thursday, May 07, 2009For an animal lover there is no greater joy than opening your heart and home to a pet in need. Thanks to the support of pet passionate people like you and the dedication of animal shelters across the country, orphaned animals are being given another chance at finding a forever home. This May, the CFHS is partnering with Iams in Iams Friends For Life month to raise awareness about pet adoption ...
CFHS happy to announce funding grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation
Friday, Apr 24, 2009The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies is happy to announce it has received a grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation to continue its work on the link between animal abuse and domestic violence. Last year, the Federation worked to establish a network of organizations and encouraged them to work together to help women and pets leave abusive households. This grant will help fund the ...
Canadian government ignores animal welfare
Thursday, Apr 16, 2009In early April, the CFHS released a report showing how far Canada is behind other countries when it comes to the planning and funding of animal welfare. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada finalized their Growing Forward policy framework in April, after almost two years of consultation. This framework sets the policy plans and priorities for agriculture in Canada for the next five years. Despite ...
Chocolate Easter bunnies make the best gifts
Thursday, Apr 09, 2009Click here for details Easter is the perfect time to purchase a bunny… a chocolate bunny that is. During the Easter season, people are too often swayed to purchase a rabbit on impulse without realizing the care and attention that rabbits need. Although you think it might be nice to bring home a live bunny for Easter, we ask you to seriously consider whether you have the time and ...
CFHS 2009 National Animal Welfare Conference CANCELLED
Thursday, Apr 02, 2009The CFHS is disappointed to report to all animal welfare supporters that due to a number of reasons – primarily the impact of the current economic conditions – the CFHS has decided to cancel the 2009 National Animal Welfare Conference scheduled to be held in Ottawa in May. At this point, we urge you to immediately cancel any travel and accommodation arrangements you may have made in ...
Don’t Buy Puppies from Pet Stores
Tuesday, Mar 17, 2009Are you thinking of adding a new dog to your household? Whatever you do, don’t buy from a pet store. Despite what they tell you in the store, reputable breeders would never allow their puppies to be sold in pet stores. When you buy one of these puppies you are likely and unknowingly supporting the puppy mill industry, or at least disreputable breeders. Pet stores often charge more than ...
The National Animal Welfare Conference is coming!
Friday, Mar 13, 2009The CFHS is proud to host this year’s National Animal Welfare Conference (NAWC) in Ottawa, Ontario. The focus of NAWC 2009 will be the cat overpopulation problem in Canada. The guest speakers for this year’s event are representative of many animal welfare agencies combatting feline overpopulation and will provide an informative and interesting experience for all our guests. NAWC 2009 ...
Special edition Hartz toys to benefit CFHS
Friday, Feb 27, 2009Purchase a plush toy for your pet and help animals across Canada! Hartz Canada Inc. has released four plush toys from Hartz Nature’s Collection for dogs and cats in an effort to raise awareness and funds for the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies. Two special edition dog toys (a black and white husky and a furry brown beaver) and two special edition cat toys (a mountain lion and ...
Québec considering mandatory breeder registration
Thursday, Feb 19, 2009According to a CBC News article published this week, the province of Quebec is considering developing a mandatory registration system for dog breeders in the province. This group is expected to have about 20 members including representatives from the veterinary community, SPCAs and the pet industry. Last week, the Agriculture Ministry formed a committee that will examine problems linked to pet ...
Animal shelter volunteers get national recognition
Friday, Feb 06, 2009Animal shelters across Canada depend on the dedication and hard work of volunteers to help care for the tens of thousands of animals admitted each year. Each volunteer brings a unique set of skills; whether they provide care for the animals, share their internet or photography skills or assist with fundraising, their contribution is priceless. This year, the Canadian Federation of Humane ...
Holiday fraud reminds pet buyers to beware
Friday, Jan 09, 2009A recent story in the Ottawa Citizen depicts the heartbreaking experience of a local businessman who became a victim of fraud when attempting to buy a pet online. A man and his teenage daughter spent months researching prospective breeders when they came across an online advertisement for teacup Maltese, Yorkie and Chihuahua puppies in Newfoundland and thought they had found their dog. ...
Marley helps the CFHS promote responsible pet ownership
Wednesday, Dec 03, 2008This holiday season, the CFHS and 20th Century Fox have partnered to promote the upcoming film Marley & Me, a tale about a young couple who welcome a young Labrador retriever into their lives and with it comes a whole lot of mischief. The CFHS is promoting this film by distributing promotional movie posters to members and publishing important pet ownership information to consider ...
Ontario’s animal welfare act gets stronger penalties and enhanced protection
Tuesday, Nov 18, 2008The CFHS is encouraged by the recent legislative updates to the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, its first significant update in just under 90 years. Under this new bill, the Ontario SPCA will now be able to inspect more facilities and animal abusers will face stronger penalties. The prohibited behaviours and offenses section now states that no person shall ...
Ontario judge bans woman from owning dogs
Thursday, Nov 13, 2008Ontario Justice of the Peace Angela Renaud has ordered a lifetime dog ownership ban for a 20-year-old Windsor, Ont. woman. Armstrong is accused of failing to treat her pets in a humane manner and provide basic necessities after two dogs were found starved to death. Amanda Armstrong received a $1,000 fine and was ordered the lifetime ban after pleading guilty to two counts of animal cruelty. ...
Teach kids about animal care with Animal WOW!
Thursday, Oct 30, 2008The CFHS has partnered with the California-based company Animal WOW! for the 2008 holiday season. This new partnership will give CFHS members and supporters an opportunity to own a multi award winning DVD and other children’s products and support the CFHS at the same time. Animal WOW!’s Dogs WOW Dogs is a fun children’s DVD that addresses dog safety, dog care and dog training while ...
Daisy Duke case defence counsel argues animals can’t be victims; they’re property
Friday, Oct 24, 2008A recent claim made by the defence council in the Didsbury animal cruelty case has animal welfare supporters outraged. Sun Media reports that the Defence counsel disputed the suggestion that the abused victim was under his client’s care by stating “animals are considered property, and as such can’t be ‘victims’,” said the article. Shelagh MacDonald, program director at the CFHS says ...
Is This the Parliament that Will Finally Take a Stance on Animal Welfare?
Thursday, Oct 16, 2008During the election campaign the CFHS approached all five major political parties about their stance on a variety of matters related to animal welfare. Having reviewed these responses from every party, except the Conservatives who failed to respond, it was apparent that at least the opposition parties recognize the need to revamp our country’s stance on animal welfare. With the October ...
CFHS Brings the Issue of Animal Welfare to Canada’s Political Parties
Wednesday, Oct 08, 2008On October 14th, 2008 Canadians will go to the polls to decide which candidate will be elected in their riding, which leader will be made Prime Minister and which party will form the new government. The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) knows that animal welfare is an important issue for many Canadians and that it would be valuable, during this election campaign, for each party to ...
Urging Candidates to Debate Animal Welfare Issues
Friday, Oct 03, 2008On October 14th, 2008 Canadians will go to the polls to decide which candidate will be elected in their riding. This election and the government that we choose will have a tremendous impact on whether Canada’s outdated and ineffective animal cruelty laws are finally updated to correct the inadequacies of the current legislation. The CFHS encourages all Canadians to join us in bringing ...
Urging the Political Party Leaders to Debate the Issue of Animal Cruelty
Wednesday, Sep 24, 2008On October 14th, 2008 Canadians will go to the polls to decide which candidate will be elected in their riding, which leader will be made Prime Minister and which party will form the new government. With the campaign on-going, the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) urges all Canadians to raise the issue of animal cruelty laws with candidates and party leaders during the campaign. ...
TV Commercial Blasts Efforts Made by Humane Societies and SPCAs
Saturday, Sep 13, 2008For decades – even centuries – humane societies, SPCAs and animal welfare organizations have worked to help improve life for animals in Canada. Animal care workers, volunteers, supporters and educators generously give their time and concern for the well-being of homeless and neglected animals, but the number of animals that a shelter takes in is sometimes overwhelming. It’s ...
Government neglects animal welfare
Friday, Sep 05, 2008The CFHS is calling on Canada’s Auditor General to conduct an independent performance audit of the Ministry of Agriculture’s lack of attention to animal welfare. A news release was issued earlier this month to draw attention to the CFHS’s concerns. And a 4 1/2-page letter click here [pdf file: 0.2mb] has been sent to the Auditor General itemizing the many ways in which the federal ...
Adopting adult cats makes sense
Friday, Aug 22, 2008This past summer has been a busy season for several animal shelters across Canada as many have reported an increase in surrendered animals and few adoptions. This growth is mainly apparent in the cat adoption room and it can be somewhat attributed to low adoption rates in adult cats.Despite the reason, the cats that have found themselves in humane societies and SPCAs are themselves simply ...
Animals should not be part of the razzle dazzle
Wednesday, Aug 13, 2008It’s that time of the year again, a time when carnivals and circuses roll into communities across the country and offer audiences one last chance to roar with laughter as performers dazzle under the big tent. This razzle and dazzle may be exciting for some audiences but it isn’t as exciting for the performers – especially when animals are the source of entertainment. Whether the ...
More animal shelters reach full capacity during summer months
Tuesday, Jul 29, 2008A number of local animal shelters across the country are at full capacity this summer — and that’s not a good thing. Many shelters are feeling the crunch as their kennels and cat rooms fill up with strays or surrendered pets and their adoption numbers can’t keep up. There are many reasons why animal shelters are seeing a surge during the summer months. With an increase in outdoor ...
Hot summer days dangerous for pets
Monday, Jul 21, 2008Leaving your pet in a car for even 10 minutes on a hot summer day can be enough to have an impact on your pet’s heath. A bowl of water and lowered windows can help temporarily but your animals can still suffer a heat stroke in a short period of time. If the temperature is above 30 degrees or if you find the weather hot, leave your pets at home. It’s not worth the risk. The following are ...
Dogs rehabilitating while Vick files for bankruptcy
Friday, Jul 11, 2008A year has passed since suspended NFL star Michael Vick was charged with running a dog fighting operation and thanks to the U.S. District Judge who ruled in the case, most of the dogs found on the property are being rehabilitated. Each of the pit bulls found on the property was evaluated by animal behavior experts who were asked to set aside any breed stereotypes. As a result, 25 of the ...
Changes Requested to Accuser’s Plea in Daisy Duke Case
Monday, Jun 30, 2008A significant change has been requested in the animal cruelty case of Daisy Duke in Didsbury, Alberta. In a brief court appearance on June 27, Daniel Haskett and his new lawyer requested that his plea in the animal cruelty case be changed to not guilty. Haskett admitted that he lied in his previous court appearance, indicating that he pleaded guilty in order to put an end to the harassment he ...
NDP Tables Animal Cruelty Bill
Thursday, Jun 19, 2008On June 4th, NDP Member of Parliament Penny Priddy tabled Bill C-558, a private member’s bill to amend the animal cruelty section of the Criminal Code. This bill is very similar to Liberal MP Mark Holland’s Bill C-373. Although the NDP has strongly supported Bill C-373, this bill will not come up for debate in the House of Commons for some time because Mr. Holland’s assigned priority ...
Preparing for a safe summer
Monday, May 12, 2008With the warm weather now upon us, many people will be spending more time outdoors and in the sunshine – including pet owners and their pets. This season, take the proper precautions to keep your pets safe. Summertime Pet Tips Keep your pet’s dish full with plenty of cold water for proper hydration. Leave your pets at home when you are running errands. They can suffer – and even ...
Change of Venue for Annual General Meeting and Conference
Wednesday, Apr 30, 2008Due to the increasing water levels surrounding the venue in Fredericton, the CFHS has re-located the Annual General Meeting and Conference to the Delta Fredericton. CFHS staff have been working with the Delta Fredericton in order to reserve a block of rooms for guests. If you have already made reservations at the Lord Beaverbrook, please call the Delta Fredericton to re-confirm your ...
A disappointing day for animals in Canada
Thursday, Apr 10, 2008By a vote of 189-71, Bill S-203 passed final vote in the House of Commons on April 9th. It will become law once it receives Royal Assent and Proclamation. Although this was a very disappointing outcome, it was encouraging to see so many Members of Parliament stand against this archaic and inadequate bill. The opposing votes were from NDP, Liberal and one Bloc MP. Conservatives stood ...
MPs vote on Bill S-203 today!
Wednesday, Apr 09, 2008Today is the day that Members of Parliament are voting on Animal Cruelty Bill S-203. We encourage you to keep calling your MP and ask him or her NOT to support Bill S-203 when it comes up for vote later today in the House of Commons. In an effort to hold MPs accountable for their votes, the CFHS, IFAW and WSPA have launched DontBeCruel.org, a website created to inform Canadians of the animal ...
Help us Stop Bill S-203!
Wednesday, Mar 19, 2008There is still time to stop Animal Cruelty Bill S-203! The Bill will be heading into Third Reading in April and we need your help to stop this inadequate bill from being passed. Call, fax or email your Member of Parliament (MP) NOW and ask him or her NOT to support Bill S-203 when it comes up for Third Reading vote in the House of Commons. Also call, fax or email Stéphane Dion and ask ...
Putting the moc(k) in Democracy
Wednesday, Feb 06, 2008By the time the next edition of our national newsletter, Animal Welfare in Focus, arrives on your doorstep, Canadians may be saddled with new but woefully inadequate Criminal Code animal cruelty legislation. Clear demands from the majority of citizens for new legislation that would move animal cruelty laws out of the 19th and into the 21st century have been ignored by our elected officials. ...
Help us stop animal abuse - get your postcards now!
Thursday, Jan 03, 2008Thank you to all who have supported and participated in our ‘Stop Bill S-203’ campaign which has now concluded. Please continue to call/write your Member of Parliament urging them not to support Bill S-203. To obtain your MP’s office telephone numbers, please dial toll-free, 1-800-622-6232. Dear Prime Minister, As a cat fosterer, you demonstrate that you care about ...
Michael Vick would walk in Canada
Tuesday, Aug 21, 2007Help us stop animal abuse Get the latest news on our efforts to update the federal Criminal Code, and find out what you can do to help get this 115-year-old law updated! The ongoing case of NFL… superstar Michael Vick’s involvement in a dogfighting ring leaves no question how Canadians feel about this violent activity. The continued press coverage and public outrage are a ...
Animals Matter!
Tuesday, Jul 17, 2007Support the United Nations Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare Who’s the Muddiest Buddy? The Muddiest Buddies: A Collection of North America’s Dirtiest Pets Click here to find out more about how you can support the CFHS with this adorable book! The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) is spearheading an ambitious campaign: achieve global ...
Bill S-213 passes 2nd reading
Thursday, Apr 26, 2007Muddiest Buddy Book The Muddiest Buddies: A Collection of North America’s Dirtiest Pets Carpet One Floor & Home recently held a contest in search of the muddiest pet in North America. They chose just one winner— a Yellow Labrador Retriever named Bob. He will serve as the official Muddiest Buddy and official Lees carpet spokes-pet, and is featured on the cover of The ...
Bill S-213 - 2nd hour of debate
Thursday, Apr 12, 2007The final hour of Second Reading debate on Bill S-213 is tentatively scheduled for April 24th (unless an election is called before then). If you have not already communicated with your Member of Parliament, now’s the time! Click here for a sample letter and more information on how you can help! Allaying industry concerns Many animal use industry groups, as well as several Members ...
Inadequate animal cruelty law debated in the House of Commons
Monday, Mar 05, 2007Act Now! Following the success of Tamara Chaney’s petition rejecting Bill S-213 (which gathered nearly 112,000 names and was tabled in Parliament in mid-February), a new petition is now circulating calling for the government to introduce effective amendments to the animal cruelty provisions of the Criminal Code based on Bill C-373. After many requests from our caring supporters, ...
ACT NOW TO STOP BAD ANIMAL CRUELTY LEGISLATION FROM BECOMING LAW
Monday, Feb 05, 2007Published in The Hill Times, February 26th×Third and final ad in the series. To download the series click here [pdf file: 0.26mb] Act Now! Following the success of Tamara Chaney’s petition rejecting Bill S-213 (which gathered nearly 112,000 names and was tabled in Parliament in mid-February), a new petition is now circulating calling for the government to introduce ...
CFHS denounces farm animal care publication
Thursday, Jan 04, 2007Support changes to farm animal transportation regulations! Support the CFHS’ and the BC SPCA’s efforts to update the transport regulations! Click on the link below to send us your comments. The CFHS… and the BC SPCA… will gather supportive messages from coast to coast and send them to the CFIA… on your behalf. Voice your support for changes to Canada’s transport ...
Senate passes inadequate animal cruelty bill
Wednesday, Dec 13, 2006Poll shows Canadians want stronger animal cruelty laws The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies and IFAW… release poll data that shows Canadians want effective animal cruelty laws. Click here to view the poll results. Showing an incredible lack of democracy, the Senate quickly passed Bill S-213 on December 7th. Just three days earlier, the Canadian Federation of Humane ...
85% of Canadians want real protection for animals
Wednesday, Dec 13, 2006A new poll released by the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) found that Canadians want effective and modernized legislation to protect animals from criminal acts of cruelty; An overwhelming 85% of Canadians support legislation that will make it easier for law enforcement agencies to prosecute those who commit criminal acts of ...
CFHS commends MP Mark Holland for his efforts to push for animal cruelty legislation
Friday, Nov 03, 2006CFHS… response to Montreal SPCA… fundraising articleGlobe and Mail, Nov. 8, 2006 Please click on the link below to view our Letter to the Editor sent to the Globe and Mail in response to this article. CFHS… response Statement by Steve Carroll, Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies ...
CFHS remembers former Director
Friday, Nov 03, 2006The CFHS staff and Board of Directors are saddened by the passing of former Board member Mary Driscoll. Mary was an active Board member from 1984 to 2003, and was the CFHS’ Treasurer from 1995 on. Mary was recipient of the 2003 McGrand Award, the CFHS’ most prestigious award, presented to builders of the humane movement and to those that have made significant contributions to animal welfare ...
Conservatives support inadequate legislation
Friday, Oct 27, 2006The Conservative government is putting the welfare of animals and vulnerable Canadians at risk by today announcing it will support a wholly inadequate private member’s bill to amend the animal cruelty provisions of the Criminal Code. “The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) is disappointed – but not surprised – that Justice Minister Vic Toews is supporting Bill S-213,” ...
Protect Your Pets
Friday, Aug 25, 2006The CFHS has partnered with DoSomething to encourage Canadian youth to become active in animal welfare throughout the month of August! Youth are invited to “do something” to help animals in their community: walk a neighbour’s dog, organize a fundraiser for a local shelter, or even volunteer with an animal shelter or rescue group if you can. Protect Ur Pets is also a great way ...
