Nova Scotia to strengthen animal abuse laws

Maximum penalties for animal abuse, mandatory health checks and standard of care regulations are all items on a proposed amendment to Nova Scotia's Animal Protection Act introduced by Agriculture Minister John MacDonell at legislature last week. 

MacDonell said the government wants to address the problem of puppy mills and crack down on people who sell dogs without ensuring the health and protection of the animals. 

According to the Nova Scotia SPCA's 2012 year end report, the Society responded to more than 18,000 inquiries and complaints regarding the welfare of animals in the province. Under MacDonell's new legislation, the fine for a first time animal abuse offense would increase to $25,000 from $10,000 while a second offense jumps to $50,000 from $25,000. 

The amendments would give the agricultural minister authority to create regulations about the standard of care for animals, including shelters such as dog houses, animal restraints and tethers. 

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