Animal Cruelty Legislation Bill C-50

Read more on Bill C-50. --> Animal Cruelty Legislation

OverviewAcross Canada, provincial legislation protects animals from cruelty. These laws usually fall under the auspices of local humane societies. At the national level, animals are protected from cruelty under Sections 444-447 of the Criminal Code. However critics have argued that the law which hasn't been updated in over a century, does little to protect animals from abuse and cruelty. The punishment for those who are convicted under the Code range from a maximun of 6 months imprisonment, a maximun of $2,000 and a prohibition of owning an animal for a maximum of two years.

Under the proposed legislation, punishment for those who are convicted of abusing animals would include: Imprisonment for up to 5 years. Be prohibited from owning an animal for 5 years. A fine of up to $10,000 or imprisonment for up to 18 months or both. In addition, the courts could order the convict to pay for the cost associated with the animal's loss or injury.