Under proposed changes to provincial legislation, anyone selling dogs or cats in New Brunswick will have to provide a valid veterinarian certificate to the buyer.
Other measures would require dog owners to follow improved tethering guidelines, two new standards are proposed for the care of dogs and the care and handling of rabbits and a reference to kennel operations will be updated.
Greater Moncton SPCA executive director Dan Fryer calls the changes refreshing and noted how his organization provided input to Local Government Minister Daniel Allain.
“He’s also been talking to, not just us, but other stakeholders in the community that are impacted by this. So the changes that he’s looking to suggest they really are a boost to animal welfare in the province.”
Fryer believes the amendments will also offer better protection for consumers.
“Having the ability to rely on a veterinarian certificate really provides some assurance to both the buyer and the seller to know that welfare standards are where they should be and the animal is as healthy as it can be.”
Additional regulatory changes concerning dog control in rural areas are expected later this fall.
“The New Brunswick Veterinary Medical Association supports the commitment of responsible breeding practices and public protection outlined in the amended regulations,” said Nicole Jewett, the association’s registrar.
“Our purpose is to advance and maintain the standard of veterinary medicine in the province and protect the welfare of our patients and their owners. In light of the current veterinary workforce shortage, we strongly recommend that health exams be scheduled well in advance of the intended sale, as longer than usual wait times are now expected for non-medically urgent visits at most veterinary hospitals in New Brunswick.’’
Proposed amendments to the General Regulation and Pet Establishment Regulation under the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act would come into effect by January 1, 2022.
The public can also provide input on the proposed amendments by November 1 on the GNB website.
