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CFHS opposes the use of animals in all forms of entertainment or displays which may cause them to suffer.
CFHS believes, in particular, that animals performing or on display in a travelling environment will be deprived of a normal existence and may lack proper attention to their physical, social, and psychological needs.
CFHS contends that the following are detrimental to the well-being of animals:
July 1995
CFHS opposes the use of animals, wild by nature, in all forms of entertainment.
CFHS believes that wild animals maintained in a travelling environment for entertainment purposes will be deprived of a normal existence and will lack proper attention to their physical, social and psychological needs.
CFHS opposes:
3.1 CFHS is opposed in principle to rodeo and is working towards the ultimate abolition of this activity.
3.2 CFHS recognizes that rodeo continues to be a regional tradition in some parts of Canada.
3.3 CFHS believes that it can best reduce and end suffering of animals used in rodeo by targeting specific rodeo events for elimination.
3.4 CFHS will actively pursue every means in its power to reduce and end suffering of animals used in rodeo events:
4.1 CFHS supports only those zoos or wildlife enclosures which adhere to the principle that the needs and welfare of the animals are of primary importance, must take precedence over consideration for human visitors and should not be compromised by economic factors. Housing and management must meet the health, emotional and behavioural needs of each species of animal. Therefore all animals must be provided with living areas of exceptionally high quality, which closely resemble their natural habitat, where they may live reasonably natural lives.
4.2 CFHS recognizes that in an effort to preserve and maintain captive wild animal populations, maintenance of genetic mix and reproductive viability are essential, and that in the process animals may be produced which are not genetically or demographically desirable for breeding programs. CFHS urges that when animals are disposed of, the operators of the zoo or wildlife enclosure must assure they will receive at least the same level of care which they currently enjoy. Under no circumstances does CFHS consider roadside exhibits, circuses, travelling wild animals shows, commercial animal trainers, or individuals looking for companion animals as appropriate recipients.
4.3 When animals cannot be appropriately disposed of, CFHS reluctantly accepts that the humane destruction of fit animals may be necessary. CFHS condones only those methods and procedures that cause minimal distress to the animals.
5.1 CFHS is opposed to the use of animals in blood sports such as bullfighting, dogfighting, cockfighting and similar spectacles.
5.2 CFHS is opposed to any hunting of animals with the help of hounds or dogs to harry the animals. This is taken to include fox hunting, coon hunting, deer hunting, and the hunting of hares and rabbits.
CFHS deplores the training of greyhound racing dogs by the use of live rabbit lures, negative reinforcement procedures, and the destruction of greyhounds which are not potentially successful competitors.
7.1 CFHS is opposed to drugs being administered with a view to altering the performance of a horse.
7.2 CFHS is opposed to any races where unreasonable or excessive demands upon the horse cause distress or suffering, e.g., immature or unfit animals.
7.3 CFHS is opposed to excessive use of the whip.
CFHS is concerned that competitive horsemanship events, where success can lead to money or fame, may often be grossly overtaxing to horses.
CFHS is opposed to the following:
Position Statement
CFHS is opposed to bloodless bullfighting. CFHS believes that bloodless bullfighting encourages disrespect for animals, and may be detrimental to the physical and psychological well-being of the animals.
Definition
Bloodless or Portuguese-style bullfighting involves the use of darts with blunt points covered with velcro that adhere to a mat fitted on the animal’s back.
Bloodless bullfighting is not intended to involve killing or the deliberate infliction of serious physical harm to the animals. However, the bull is prepared for the exhibition by using techniques such as harassment or an electric prod to provoke the animal. In some cases horses are used in the bullfight.
Background/Rationale
Bloodless bullfighting is an event common in Portugal and has been introduced to Canada.
Bloodless bullfighting involves taunting and harassing the animals, causing them psychological stress and possible physical harm. Bloodless bullfighting may subject the animals to distress, harassment and pain, both in training and in the actual fight, to encourage a higher level of aggression in the bulls.
May 1996
Events such as animal exhibitions and publicity stunts are susceptible to inhumane treatment of the animals involved; the sponsors, participants, and organizers must assume the responsibility to ensure humane treatment of the animals.
