The Alberta government is set to enhance animal welfare by increasing fines and penalties through the Animal Protection Amendment Act, also known as Bill 22. The proposed changes aim to provide clearer definitions of distress and abandonment, allowing peace officers to intervene more effectively in harmful situations affecting animals. Indicators of distress now include factors such as access to proper shelter and sanitation. Additionally, the amendments broaden the scope of locations and businesses subject to inspection to include boarding and grooming facilities.
If approved, the bill will raise maximum fines for offenders from $20,000 to $250,000 and introduce jail terms of up to 12 months for serious offenses. The legislation also targets individuals who have harmed animals in other provinces and relocated to Alberta without facing consequences for their actions. Alberta aims to become the first province in Canada to enforce prohibition orders from other provinces, enabling peace officers to take action against repeat offenders nationwide.
Leanna Niblock, executive director of the Alberta SPCA, emphasized that the increased fines and potential jail time will enhance accountability, serve as a deterrent, and demonstrate the importance of animals under the law. Recent incidents of animal distress, including a case where two women were charged with animal cruelty in northwestern Alberta, highlight the necessity of stronger animal protection measures. Over 300 animals were surrendered from two locations of In The Woods animal rescue, located in Marie Reine, Alta., and the Municipal District of Smoky River.
