New regulations have been adopted in Quebec to ban "cosmetic surgery" on cats and dogs.
Effective 18 months later, the regulation prohibits nail clipping, non-localization, tail cutting and ear trimming in cats and dogs. These procedures are no longer legal in Quebec unless there is a medical reason to do so.
The Livestock and Horse Welfare and Safety Regulations were established by the Quebec Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
It also defines minimum standards of care, including socialization, enrichment, and exercise, for keeping and breeding cats, dogs, guinea pigs, companion pigs, rabbits, ferrets, and horses. doing.
Euthanasia of animals by gassing would be illegal.
In a news release, the department said the rule would provide specific standards for pet owners and breeders across states.
"Publishing the regulation is a big step for animal protection in Quebec," said Minister André Lamontagne.
Setting Standards
Regulations banning cosmetic surgery on domestic pets have been followed by organizations such as the Quebec Veterinary Association, which banned tail cutting and ear trimming for members in 2017. enacted after years of pressure from
However, these prohibitions were never formally enacted — until now.
In a statement to the CBC, the ministry said the 18-month waiting period would give people and businesses time to comply with the new rules.
However, one rule that will take effect on August 25th is that newly licensed breeders will be limited to 50 animals.
However, advocates of some animal rights groups say the new rule should apply to existing businesses.
“Anyone who currently keeps 50 or more animals for reproductive purposes may continue to keep those animals. Only new breeders apply for a permit, says Sophie Gaillard of the Montreal SPCA.
"The measures are pretty diluted," said Gaillard.
