NS SPCA requires government funding and tougher legislation

The Government of Nova Scotia has proposed tougher animal welfare regulations after a dog named Buddy, a husky mix who lived isolated and alone, tied to a doghouse for 7 years, was euthanized over the weekend.

Minister of Agriculture, Keith Colwell, is responsible for animal cruelty enforcement in Nova Scotia and a self-professed dog lover. Earlier this week, he told Global News he is currently working with stakeholders to create updated regulations on animal cruelty - including tethering and minimum standards of care - as part of legislation passed during the previous government. Colwell also included cats in the updates to the legislation. 

The Nova Scotia SPCA responded with a press release stating that while it was pleased with Colwell's response, it would like to work more closely with the Government to ensure the regulations are properly enforced. 

"With regards to the Minister’s comments concerning funding the SPCA’s enforcement of the Animal Protection Act, we hope that the Department of Agriculture recognizes the benefit of partnering with the SPCA," reads the release. "This applies to not only the enforcement of the legislation, but also in allowing us to provide input as to what regulations would be the most effective in preventing dogs like Buddy from suffering in the future."

The NS SPCA relies on the generosity of the public and currently receives no government funding. To achieve Colwell's commitments, the SPCA requires consistent financial support from the government and tougher regulations in the current legislation to better protect animals. 

“We believe that we have the knowledge and skill set to continue to provide oversight and act as the primary resource for enforcement.  In recent years, the Society has invested heavily in creating a database that logs all calls, complaints and offences.  This allows us to monitor and track cases on an on going basis,” said Nova Scotia SPCA CEO, Elizabeth Murphy.

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NS SPCA announces new CEO

The Provincial Board of the Nova Scotia SPCA announced earlier this week the arrival of new CEO Elizabeth Murphy.

Elizabeth brings a wealth of experience in the non-profit sector, most recently as the Director of Development with Easter Seals of Nova Scotia. She has also served as the Director of Development at the PEI Humane Society, Executive Director with Bulkley Valley HIV/AIDS Society and Revenue Development Director at the PEI Heart and Stroke Foundation. 

"The Urban Animal Program enjoyed the leadership of the Nova Scotia SPCA for its subscribers throughout North America. On behalf of nearly 1,600 Urban Animal Directors, Advocates, Mentors, Alumni, Associates and Collaborators we extend a hearty welcome to Elizabeth Murphy the new CEO of this organization," said PetLynx Corporation president and CEO Larry Evans. 

"We invite Elizabeth to continue the tradition of North America leadership which we enjoyed under former Chief Executive, Kristen Williams and we offer our support and our encouragement as she takes over the reins of Atlantic Canada’s largest Humane/Rescue organization."

In addition to her management, fund development and communications skills, Elizabeth has a love for animals and is committed to the growing success of the Nova Scotia SPCA.

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