WINNIPEG (Staff) – The Manitoba government is proposing a tough new law to protect animals from abuse and punish people who harm them.
The government worked with a team of professionals on the new law after a Steinbach man accused of operating a “puppy mill” was charged with abusing more than 100 dogs last year. The charges have not yet been heard in court.
Under the proposed Animal Care Act, operations producing more than two litters of cats or dogs per year or housing more than 20 animals at a time would need a licence.
Inspectors would be able to seize animals immediately if they found them to be in distress, instead of having to get permission from the veterinary services director.
Maximum fines for first offences would rise to $5,000. The current maximum is $500. Repeat offenders could be charged $10,000.
The legislature will deal with the bill after it returns from its summer recess Sept. 16.
