CS-14-19

From: Kelli Polsinelli Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 8:51 AM To: clerks Subject: Community Services Committee

To members of the Oshawa Community Services Committee,

My name is Kelli Polsinelli, and since 2006 I have been a resident of Oshawa, where I live with my husband and two children. In addition to my role as homeschooler for my children, I am an authorized wildlife rehabilitator through the Ministry of Natural Resources, as well as the Durham Region representative for Coyote Watch Canada. Therefore much of my time is dedicated to interacting with the communities in Durham Region on a number of animal issues.

One thing that remains consistently clear to me is that the community of Oshawa considers animal welfare important, and that by extension, our laws and community customs ought to reflect those values. With the proposed spay/neuter clinic expected to be available in 2015, it's obvious that council is sensitive to the overpopulation of dogs and cats in our community. And Oshawa is not alone. Recently, Vaughan joined Toronto (3), Mississauga (4), Kingston (1), and Vancouver in passing a local by-law prohibiting the resale of dogs and cats in pet stores, unless the animals are received from municipal animal shelters, registered Humane Societies, registered shelters or rescue groups. With millions of people supporting these decisions, it's obvious that thanks to all the hard work of rescue organizations, Canadians now know the true cost of a pet store dog/cat, and are not comfortable with it. And this issue hits close to home. As you may recall, in March of 2012, the Durham Humane Society seized 31 dogs from a puppy mill in Curtis, ON that was found to be in "unacceptable conditions" by their animal cruelty investigator (5).

Each of the above-mentioned municipalities conducted extensive research into the specific ways that pet stores contribute to pet overpopulation and found that the majority of dogs and cats are bought on impulse, which vastly increases the likelihood of that animal ending up in a municipal or private shelter. These animals are the easiest to sell when young, which means people purchase them when they are not old enough to be spayed, neutered or adequately vaccinated. Again, this can increase the likelihood of that animal ending up in a shelter, or having babies, which in turn puts a lot of pressure on Animal Services. These animals can also quickly become sick and require extensive medical care, which puts the public at risk, and again, increases the likelihood of that animal being surrendered to a shelter.

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The "Pet Industry Consultation Results Chart" (2) found in the Vaughan council meeting minutes on January 21, 2014 shows significant support for this by-law from the Ontario Ministry of Health, the OSPCA, as well as many local pet stores, including PJ's Pets and Pet Valu. My experience leads me to believe similar support exists here, which is why I'm asking you to bring this issue before council.

As other municipalities continue to enact these by-laws, if Oshawa does not, it is conceivable that retail operations shut down in our neighbouring municipalities may find Oshawa a safe place to set up shop. Additionally, not having such a by-law in place increases our pet population, and puts more stress on our city financially. A by-law is a win-win-win. A win for the animals, a win for the city, and a win for Oshawa residents who, like the majority of Canadians, do not find puppy mills an acceptable way to find a companion.

I request the opportunity to discuss a potential by-law with the committee on February 6, 2014. I will happily provide more details on why this is a necessary next step in continuing to meet the needs of our growing community, as well as ensuring our local by-laws reflect the values of our fine residents.

Regards

Kelli Polsinelli

(1) http://www.kingstonregion.com/news-story/3920249-kingston-approves-bylaw-to-ban-pet-sales-from-pet-stores/ (2) http://www.vaughan.ca/council/minutes_agendas/AgendaItems/CW(WS)0121_14_1.pdf (3) http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2013/ls/bgrd/backgroundfile-55420.pdf (4) http://www.hamilton.ca/NR/rdonlyres/622F7503-3DED-406E-8946-760DC1144F38/0/Oct10Item54.pdf (5) http://www.durhamregion.com/news-story/3503323-durham-humane-society-needs-homes-for-31-rescued-puppies/

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Aug 01, 2013

Kingston approves bylaw to ban pet sales from pet stores

Kingston Heritage

It may sound like a strange contradiction - stopping pet stores from selling popular household pets.

But animal welfare advocates are applauding Kingston's new bylaw that bans the sale of cats, dogs and rabbits unless those animals come solely from shelters or rescue agencies.

"We are a little town but we're making some big moves here," beamed Jessica Hellard with the group Kingston Animal Rescue.

"We think it's the most progressive (bylaw) in Canada and that's putting Kingston on the map for it."

With no debate at their July 16 meeting, councillors voted 9-2 to make Kingston one of only a few cities in Canada to ban the retail sale of cats, dogs and rabbits from unsourced suppliers. The measure is designed to put the bite on illegal breeders, eliminate so-called impulse buying of pets, and reduce the city's pet over-population.

At least two retail stores in Kingston -The Pet Store and Pet Paradise -will be affected by the bylaw, which is expected to pass third and final reading next month.

"They still have a role to play," said Alison Migneault of Kingston Animal Rescue, noting pet stores are encouraged to sell animals that come exclusively from shelters.

"They have the opportunity to have dogs, cats and rabbits from rescues and shelters in their stores, and to help get them placed into good homes and reduce pet over-population," she added.

Once the bylaw clears final reading, expected August 13, pet store owners will no longer be able to take in animals for free and they can't buy animals from breeders. Pet stores will also be given 90 days, or until mid-November, to deplete their existing inventory of cats, dogs and rabbits.

Migneault is hopeful pet stores will abide by the new rules and refocus their business away from pet sales. "There are more than 10 pet supply stores in Kingston that don't sell animals at all and they do make a good profit."

The Kingston Humane Society also applauds the crackdown on pet sales, noting 1,000 cats, dogs and rabbits are sold every year in pet stores. "This ban will have positive benefits for the community," said society president Janice Saunders.

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Saunders says impulse buying - such as rabbits at Easter and dogs at Christmas - are contributing to the pet over-supply problem in Kingston. "The sad reality is that there are more animals in Kingston than there are homes for."

The humane society will not be swamped with more unwanted animals because of the pending pet sale ban. There will be an uptake of animals in the short term but it will lower in the long term, Saunders predicted.

Pet stores predict the opposite. They warn existing pet owners that will have no choice but to turn their unwanted and unplanned litters over to the humane society rather than take them to pet stores. Owners urged the city to hold off enacting the bylaw until June 2014 to give them more time to rethink and revamp their business models.

Other critics say Kingston is treading on the rights and freedom of store owners to sell a legal product.

Councillors did not have much more to say about the subject when the initial bylaw came up for approval. However, they are not finished bringing in further rules to tackle the growing problem of too many domestic pets in the city.

A Responsible Pet Ownership Program is currently in the works, patterned after the example in Calgary.

"A committee has put forward its recommendation and a staff report coming this fall," explained Kareen Lush, also with Kingston Animal Rescue, which played a role in drafting recommendations designed to encourage responsible pet ownership through a combination stricter enforcement and petfriendly incentives.

"The responsible pet ownership program will be moving forward," Lush told reporters. "Spay/neuter clinics are part of it."

The city is hoping to establish a variety of measures, including; low-cost spay/neuter clinics available either for low income families or the whole community, stepped up animal bylaw enforcement on nights and weekends, increased campaign to get pets tagged and licensed annually, and a rewards program for owners of tagged animals that go stray.

Said Lush of her group's support for the city's campaign: "We are just starting."

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COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE (WORKING SESSION) - JANUARY 21, 2014

VAUGHAN ANIMAL SERVICES BY-LAW REVIEW & COMMUNICATION STRATEGY

Recommendation

The Commissioner of Legal & Administrative Services/City Solicitor and Director of By-law and Compliance recommend:

1. That Animal Control By-law 53-2002, as amended, be further amended in accordance with the recommendations contained within this Report, to include:

a. restrictions to better address aggressive or menacing dog behaviours in order to minimize the potential of a bite or future incident;

b. restrictions that prohibit dogs from being left unattended or tethered in places that may create a possible risk to humans, themselves or other animals;

c. restrictions on the feeding of wildlife or use of wildlife attractants in order to prevent the intentional or unintentional luring of animals in residential areas;

d. restrictions on the sale of dogs and cats in pet stores and retail establishments, unless sourced from a shelter, humane society or rescue organization;

e. adoption of an improved schedule of prohibited species;

f. delegation of authority to the City’s Hearings Officer to preside over appeal hearings regarding the By-law; and

2. That Fees and Charges By-law 396-2002, as amended, be further amended to reflect the introduction of an appeal process fee of $125.

Contribution to Sustainability

Adoption of the recommendations contained within this Report reflects a more progressive and proactive approach intended to reduce proliferation of strays resulting from unwanted and abandoned pets, and greater protection of health and well-being of our communities, environment and natural wildlife.

Economic Impact

The recommendations within this Report include the establishment of a new fee of $125 for appeals relating to muzzling orders or other restrictions imposed with respect to a menacing or biting dog, in order to offset related costs of administering the appeal process. The City of Vaughan 2014-2017 Budget Guidelines – User Fees identifies that it is inherent within the budget process to maximize costs recovered on services provided, inclusive of submissions for new “user fee” opportunities for existing non-revenue generating services.

Staff expect an increase in appeal applications with the introduction of the authority to impose preventative control measures through issuance of Orders under the By-law. An estimated projection of 10% of possible Orders issued may result in an expected 8 to 10 appeal applications in 2014 at a fee of $125 per application. This increase is based on logical projection and review of 85 dog bite investigations having been carried out in 2013. Further, with the City’s annual hearings schedule through the Administrative Monetary Penalty program providing three hearing

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dates per month, staff anticipate that the increase in related appeal hearings can be accommodated within the current hearings schedule. However, should a demand arise for scheduling of additional hearing dates, the additional projected $1,250 (10 appeals @ $125) appeal fee revenue will recover costs associated with two additional full days of hearings, without increased financial pressure on the projected 2014 Departmental operating budget.

Implementation of the Communication Strategy developed by staff, at the request of Council, to advance responsible pet ownership will require funding. Providing and sustaining public outreach, education and awareness initiatives is becoming increasingly challenging. Although the Department continues to capitalize on “in-kind” services through partnering with Corporate Communications, Access Vaughan and other departments, the demands to sustain this focus is outpacing Departmental fiscal assets and resources (both human and financial). During the 2013 fiscal year, in excess of 200 over-time service hours were attributed to attending events outside of core business hours (after 6:00 pm and on weekends), with an additional $7,000 spent on promotional materials. Estimated costs associated with sustaining a similar level of public outreach are projected at $9,000+ in continued over-time hours and an estimated 30% increase (approximately $3,000) for additional promotional materials. As public awareness and knowledge increases, staff anticipate an increase in demand for attendance at public forums and events adding pressure to current limited resources.

Communications Plan

Upon adoption of the amending By-law, communication and public outreach will be facilitated through notification to key industry stakeholders, pet industry partners and known advocates. Information pamphlets identifying key changes will be made available at community centres, the Vaughan Animal Shelter, By-law & Compliance Office at City Hall, distributed by field officers and provided at public events and forums.

Staff will continue to seek opportunities to educate youth on the importance of responsible pet ownership and bite prevention, through attendance at school functions and improved partnerships with school officials, as time and resources permit.

In addition to the above, staff will continue to partner with Corporate Communications in the further development of our current public outreach campaign, including publicizing of newly adopted By-law amendments, such as introduction of an appeal fee, through use of the City’s website and social media solutions.

Purpose

The purpose of this Report is to:

1) Provide Council with an update on the Communication Strategy that has been implemented by the By-law & Compliance Department (Animal Services Section) to promote responsible pet ownership in relation to unleashed dogs in the City of Vaughan, in response to Council direction dated March 8, 2011 (Attachment # 1 – Excerpt of Council Meeting Minutes - Report No. 11, Item 9);

2) Introduce recommended amendments to the Animal Control By-law that will:

a. Minimize authority;

the potential for dog bites/attacks through improved regulatory

b. Restrict the sale of dogs and cats from pet stores and retail establishments;

c. Create an improved Prohibited Animal Schedule to the By-law;

d. Prohibit the feeding of wildlife and use of wildlife attractants;

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e. Delegate authority of hearing appeals to the City’s appointed Hearings Officer; and

3) Introduce recommended amendments to the Fees & Charges By-law to establish a fee for appeal of orders (eg: Muzzle Orders).

These recommendations are being proposed to improve health, safety, consumer protection and animal welfare.

Background - Analysis and Options

At its meeting of March 8, 2011, City Council directed staff to develop a Communication Strategy to make dog owners aware of their responsibility to manage their pets as required by law. Staff was to provide a report to a future Committee of the Whole meeting regarding actions taken in response to unleashed dogs and dog attacks in the community.

In response to the direction of City Council, staff developed and implemented an extensive Communication Strategy to further advance responsible pet ownership within the City, as well as bringing forward proposed improvements to the Animal Control By-law that will allow staff to more effectively address circumstances relating to aggressive dog behaviours. In the context of developing these proposed amendments and development of a Communication Strategy, staff undertook a fulsome review of the Animal Control By-law, with an emphasis on relevance and suitability to current and future community needs, and identified other areas of the Animal Control By-law that required improvement.

In preparation for this Report, staff consulted with industry stakeholders, including pet store retailers, such as: PJ’s Pet Centres; Safari Pet Centres Vaughan Mills; Pet Valu; PetSmart; the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada (PIJAC Canada); the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA); The Association of Animal Administrators of Ontario; Canadian Federation of Humane Societies and animal advocacy groups. Vaughan Animal Services continues to dialogue with residents of the City of Vaughan through contact with the public, proactive outreach and educational initiatives on an ongoing basis.

In addition, a public consultation was held on November 20, 2013 at City Hall regarding the recommendations contained within this Report. Public Notice was delivered through media publications and the City’s website. At the public consultation meeting, staff provided a presentation summarizing the main themes of the proposed recommendations. There was no opposition with respect to the proposed amendments. Areas of interest identified by the public included additional off-leash parks and/or consideration of expanded use of existing parkland allowing for dogs to be off-leash during designated times and/or identified areas. In addition, further comments included an interest to reduce or eliminate the restriction of having to keep dogs on a leash, claiming the By-law was ineffective and restricts responsible pet owners from allowing their dogs off-leash for proper socialization. Although staff acknowledged the comments provided, consideration of additional off-leash dog parks or expanded use of current parklands was not within the scope or purpose of this particular consultation, the Animal Services By-law review or proposed amendments.

A comparison of other municipalities’ by-laws was completed in preparation for this Report (See Attachment #2).

COMMUNICATION STRATEGY AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Website and Social Media

Although the Resolution from Council in March of 2011 focused mainly on unleashed dogs, there are many other facets of responsible pet ownership, such as vaccination, pet identification and pet licensing, all of which are required by the Animal Control By-law. Staff has undertaken several communication and public outreach initiatives to educate dog owners and improve awareness in these areas.

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With the ever increasing reliance on technology for gathering and receiving information, a key component of the Communication Strategy involves partnering with Corporate Communications, for improvement of the City’s websites and the use of social media. Improvements to the Animal Services website includes easier navigation, enhanced information regarding pet vaccination, pet licensing, direct links to related by-laws and other relevant resources, such as urban wildlife information, neighbouring animal shelters/humane societies, relevant provincial agencies, etc.

Staff is also utilizing Facebook to advertise a variety of Animal Services’ initiatives, including but not limited to, events, responsible pet ownership tips and By-law requirements. The use of Facebook has improved accessibility of Animal Services, enabled residents to pose questions, inquiries and offer comments for response by Animal Services’ staff. Facebook has proven to be a valuable resource, featuring specific pets, photos of available adoption animals and generating many adoption inquiries; as well as an effective mode of communication for clients to post pictures and provide updates on the progress of their newly adopted pets. Animal Services receives many inquiries regarding volunteer opportunities posted therein.

Most recently in October 2013, By-law & Compliance Animal Services staff worked collaboratively with staff from Corporate Communications in the development and successful launch of information regarding the feeding of wildlife through the City’s new blog page.

Promotional Material

Recognizing that some residents do not use social media or access websites, staff developed an information pamphlet which outlines the provisions in the Animal Control By-law pertaining to animals running at large and provides useful tips for preventing dog bites, such as spaying and neutering, socializing and proper supervision. These information pamphlets are available at the City of Vaughan Animal Shelter and By-law & Compliance Department office at Vaughan City Hall, and continue to be distributed at all public events and by Animal Control Officers when engaging the public in the field. In addition to pamphlets, staff developed and offered auto magnets and business card magnets for a small donation, which offered residents convenient access to contact information for Animal Services. Staff continues to utilize all available avenues and explore new opportunities to improve and expand public outreach and awareness.

Special Event Participation and Education

Another key component of the communication public outreach strategy is the participation of Animal Services staff in a number of special events and other public venues/forms. Since 2011, staff participated in a number of events, including but not limited to the following:

a) Man’s Best Friend Show (Vaughan Citizen);

b) Maplefest (Vaughan);

c) Carrot Fest (Bradford);

d) Schomberg Fair (King);

e) Bradford County Fair (Bradford);

f) Maple Lions Pancake Festival (Vaughan);

g) Concerts in the Park (Vaughan);

h) Vaughan Safety Expo (Vaughan Mills Mall);

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i) Santa Fest Parade (Vaughan);

j) Operation V.A.L.U.E “Vulnerable Animals Left Unattended Everyday” (Vaughan Mills Mall);

k) Movember (Vaughan);

l) City TV News “Pick A Pet” to showcase adoption animals;

m) Vaughan TV (City Hall);

n) Reptillia Camp;

o) Special Adoption Events (held semi-annually);

p) Rabies and Microchip Clinics (held semi-annually);

q) Attendance at satellite Cat Adoption centers (PetSmart & Pet Valu).

Staff also participated in various school initiatives to engage, educate and improve awareness amongst the students at Seneca College and Maple Montessori School.

This enhanced focus on public education and awareness is further emphasized by Animal Control Officers while carrying out their duties in the communities. Animal Control Officers distribute promotional materials and educate residents focusing on the benefits of responsible pet ownership and related By-law requirements at any opportunity that may arise while in the field, including during the course of investigations and when responding to public inquiries and complaints. Animal Services staff continue to attend public events, engage with educational institutions and seek future opportunities for greater outreach and improved public awareness as time and resources permit.

BITING, MENACING AND UNLEASHED DOGS

In the course of creating a Communication Strategy for responsible pet ownership, staff also identified proposed improvements to the Animal Control By-law in an attempt to further prevent the possibility of attacks by unleashed dogs in the City.

Currently, the Animal Control By-law automatically requires a dog that has bitten to be muzzled and leashed when not on the premises of the owner and to be restrained when on the premises of the owner (such as a secure and fenced yard). Although these current regulatory provisions serve as a preventative measure following an occurrence, the current by-law provisions offer no avenue for prevention prior to an attack, is only triggered once a dog has bitten and is only enforceable if the dog was impounded by staff for being at large. There are many situations in which Animal Control Officers respond to and investigate complaints regarding aggressive dogs where there may be a likelihood that the dog may bite in the future, however, preventative restrictions cannot be ordered until the dog actually bites.

Pursuant to the Dog Owners’ Liability Act of Ontario, the City may commence proceedings in the Ontario Court of Justice to obtain an Order requiring preventative measures for a menacing dog, including a muzzling order, a destruction order or any other effective control measures the Court deems advisable. However, these proceedings are costly, lengthy and therefore not entirely effective.

A review of departmental records for the period of 2012 and 2013 revealed that the By-law & Compliance Department received and investigated approximately 410 calls for service/case files regarding unleashed dogs and 125 calls regarding alleged dog attacks. These records include case files within King Township and Bradford West Gwillimbury, since these two municipalities are presently under service contract to Vaughan Animal Services.

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Within the City of Vaughan, records reflect 174 case files relating to dogs off-leash and 85 relating to alleged dog bites/attacks for the same period. As a result of the 85 dog bite investigations, 2 charges were laid, 1 muzzle order proceeding commenced and an Order was granted through the Ontario Court of Justice pursuant to the Dog Owners’ Liability Act of Ontario and 3 animals were euthanized by Vaughan Animal Services (1 stray and 2 surrendered by the dog owners). Of the remaining 79 investigations, 1 dog was released to Toronto Animal Services; with the remaining 78 cases concluding due to insufficient information/lack of evidence or the inability to consider or impose preventative measures. In all cases, resolution included educating the dog owners regarding responsible pet ownership.

Of the 174 off-leash dog case files, 18 charges were laid, with the remaining cases resulting in insufficient information/lack of evidence to proceed and education of the dog owners.

Accordingly, staff are recommending that the City adopt a more effective and proactive approach to deal with aggressive dog behaviours by supporting the proposed amendments to the Animal Control By-law to grant authority to issue Orders where there are reasonable grounds to believe that a dog may or is likely to bite in the future. Proposed changes within the By-law include the ability to impose preventative control measures, allowing staff to act without the need for a dog to be found at large. Reasonable grounds would include, but are not limited to, menacing or threatening behaviours, previous occurrences, history and any other relevant information as identified and determined during the course of an investigation.

In addition to imposing restrictions or effective controls such as being muzzled, leashed or otherwise restrained accordingly, staff recommend that the Animal Control By-law be further amended to increase the measures that can be ordered and/or imposed. These may include but are not limited to: prohibitions on any person under the age of 18 from walking the dog; the dog be microchipped and sterilized; and that there be warning signage posted at the owner’s home. These additional preventative measures effectively mitigate risk to both the public at large and to the dog owner(s). Staff believe these proposed improvements will better assist in mitigating and/or preventing the possibility of future dog bites in the City. Similar restrictions exist in other municipalities’ by-laws.

To ensure fairness and due process, the Animal Control By-law currently provides for appeals of muzzling, leashing or other restraining Orders to be heard before Council or Committee of Council. This appeal is akin to a court process: evidence is entered; witnesses are subject to examination and cross-examination; and legal submissions are made. In this respect, members of Council are acting as quasi-judicial officers. Given the demanding schedule of Council, scheduling of additional meetings and obtaining quorum for hearings, these appeals may be difficult to process. Accordingly, staff recommends that the appropriate amendments be made to the Animal Control By-law delegating the appeal function to the City’s Hearings Officer, currently appointed and presiding over appeals pursuant to the City’s Administrative Monetary Penalty (“AMP”) program.

UNATTENDED DOGS

Staff identified the need for further amendments to the By-law to clarify expectations in any public off-leash park in order to mitigate potential for aggressive scenarios. Recommended amendments will include restrictions to ensure that dogs are not left tethered and unattended in places that may create a possible risk to humans, the animals themselves or other animals.

WILDLIFE ATTRACTANTS

Proposed amendments include prohibiting the feeding of wildlife or the use of attractants in order to prevent intentional or unintentional/accidental luring of wild animals into areas that places wildlife and citizens in circumstances that may lead to unprovoked interaction with one another (eg: urban areas). Proposed recommendations offer additional benefits in line with and supportive of existing regulatory by-laws, by providing the ability to address and deter activities that can lead or contribute to poor property conditions. New proposed amendments will also prohibit the use of leg-hold traps (used as a capture method), which can be very dangerous to

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unintended victims, such as domestic animals and/or children. Staff have determined similar restrictions exist in the City of Mississauga’s By-law, but are not addressed consistently within many other municipalities’ by-laws.

PROHIBITED ANIMALS

Prohibited animals are currently identified through a Schedule of the Animal Control By-law. Proposed amendments will include prohibition of the keeping of raptors (birds of prey) and a prohibition on the keeping of constrictors (snakes). To minimize the possibility of a negative impact to any existing pet retailers who may house an inventory of constrictors for sale within the City of Vaughan, staff will be introducing the appropriate amending language providing retailers one year from passing of the By-law to retail their inventory accordingly.

In addition, staff recommend clarification of the language within the prohibited species section, making the By-law easier for public consumption and understanding; and the establishment of a list of criteria for traveling circuses to address public interest and safety. This criterion includes confirmation of animal security and right of inspection to ensure adequate conditions and vaccination protocols. Staff has determined that varied restrictions exist in other municipalities’ by-laws.

RESTRICTION OF DOG AND CAT SALES IN PET STORES & RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS

Restriction of the sale of dogs and cats by pet stores and all retail establishments has been raised as a concern by various citizens and the broader public at large. Concerns have included that the majority of dog and cat sales through retail establishments are sold at an age where the dogs or cats are too young to be spayed, neutered or adequately vaccinated; in essence adding to further proliferation of unwanted pets, risk of transmissible diseases such as rabies, and increased demands placed on Animal Services in many municipalities.

In August 2013, the By-law & Compliance Department was made aware of an electronic Facebook petition initiated by a public advocate in support of this ban. At the time this Report was prepared, this Facebook petition remained active with over 3000+ supporters responding from around the world.

In response to many of these inquiries and above-noted concerns, staff undertook to investigate community interests by initiating a comparative review of other municipalities (Attachment #2) and consultation with key industry stakeholders. Staff consulted with the pet retail industry, namely PJ’s Pet Centres, Safari Pet Centres Vaughan Mills, Pet Valu, PetSmart; along with the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada (PIJAC), the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA), Dr Catherine Filejski – Public Health Veterinarian of Health Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, and animal advocacy representatives. The following consultation results chart provides the following findings:

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PET INDUSTRY CONSULTATION RESULTS CHART

SUPPORTING A BAN

Ontario Ministry of Health Public Health and Protection ­and Long-Term Care - Dr. Greater prevention and control of Catherine Filejski, Public spread of zoonotic diseases through Health Veterinarian preventative disease control.

Improved health and well-being of the animals, reducing the likelihood of rabies transmissions to both animals and humans.

Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA)

Animal welfare.

Supports interests of the OSPCA.

Humane Society of Canada Reduces the burden of unwanted pets surrendered to animal shelters.

Minimizes prevalence of animal overpopulation, abandoned animals and strays.

PJ’s Pets Pro-actively moved to facilitating animal adoptions in the interest of animal welfare.

PetValu Animal welfare.

Due diligence is taken by reputable recognized breeders to ensure their animals are adopted into a good home.

Advocate – Kasey Dunn Animal welfare.

Consumer protection.

Advocate – Michelle DaRe Animal welfare.

Supports interests of neighbouring municipalities.

Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada (PIJAC Canada)

Advocates for responsible pet sales on behalf of the Canadian pet industry.

COMMENTS / RATIONALE FOR ORGANIZATION

In addition to the above consultation, staff held a public meeting on November 20, 2013 at City Hall that highlighted the proposed amendments.

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The consultative process undertaken by staff further concluded that additional benefits may also be realized by the City of Vaughan, similar to that of other municipalities such as:

• Reduction in increased public service demands caused by proliferation of strays; • Reduction in stray and abandoned animals; • Reduction in the number of impulse pet purchases, further adding to increased unwanted

animals ending up in shelters, rescues and humane societies; and • Most importantly, reduction in the risk of the transmission of animal diseases such as rabies.

The risk of rabies was realized in January 2008, when a puppy sold at Doctor Flea’s flea market within the City of Toronto, tested positive for rabies. Although there have been no other known incidents of this nature since that time, the incident may have been avoided with the appropriate restrictions in place.

Not unlike other regulatory schemes intended to address systemic issues and mitigate potential risks in the interest of the public, there is no absolute method to quantify other expected benefits. However, it is reasonable to conclude as other cities have, that more effective regulatory controls provide a governance system that offers greater confidence in our communities, supports greater consumer protection and public health, can contribute to further deterring “hoarding” and unlawful “puppy mill” operations from operating within Ontario (in accordance with and supportive of OSPCA mandates) and from a broader, more global perspective, these proposed measures contribute to the greater good and welfare of the community and the welfare of the animals within.

There is an increasing trend and interest amongst the animal care industry associations, such as the Association of Animal Shelter Administrators of Ontario and the Canadian Federation of Humane Society’s to consider regulatory controls, including restrictions on the sale of commercially bred dogs and cats, at the municipal level.

Through assessment of the above data, staff recommend that, and believe in the interest of consumer protection, well-being and public safety, there is sufficient reason and evidence to support the introduction of the appropriate amendments to the City of Vaughan Animal Control By-law by limiting and moving to limit the sale of dogs or cats sold through pet stores and retail establishments to animals that are sourced from a shelter, rescue organization and/or humane society.

It is important to note that currently there are no known pet retailers engaged in the sale of dogs and cats not sourced from a shelter, animal rescue or humane society within the City of Vaughan. Supporting the above recommended related amendment(s) has no adverse effect on any established businesses within the City.

As other municipalities continue to introduce such regulatory controls, not proceeding progressively to do so within the City of Vaughan provides a forum by which retail operations may eventually migrate to the City, further exasperating the issue of increased risks to the public and increased proliferation of abandoned animals. Supporting the introduction of such regulatory controls will deter this activity, provide a level playing field for the pet industry and further support the global interests of our City and that of neighbouring municipalities.

Relationship to Vaughan Vision 2020/Strategic Plan

The proposed recommendations contained within this Report are directly aligned with the City’s strategy of citizens first through service excellence, by focusing on public education for improved public awareness through providing a more comprehensive and effective Animal Control By-law, along with the introduction of necessary regulations that better address consumer protection, public interests, health and safety, and animal care within the City of Vaughan.

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Regional Implications

Adoption of proposed amendments within this Report provides an enhanced regulatory framework that directly supports regional and provincial public health mandates and legislation in respect of zoonotic diseases such as rabies.

Conclusion

The findings and recommendations contained within this Report will create a more comprehensive regulatory framework for delivery of animal services that is better aligned with community needs, public health, safety and well- being.

Attachments

1. Extract of Council Meeting Minutes of March 2011 (Report No. 11, Item 9)

2. Municipal Comparative Chart

Report prepared by:

Gus Michaels, Director By-Law & Compliance Department Ext. 8735

Susan Kelly Animal Services Supervisor By-Law & Compliance Department Ext. 8952

Chris G. Bendick Legal Counsel Ext. 8298

Respectfully submitted,

MaryLee Farrugia Gus Michaels Commissioner of Legal & Administrative Services/ Director of By-law and Compliance City Solicitor

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ATTACHMENT# 1

CITY OF VAUGHAN

EXTRA CT FROM COUNCIL MEETING MINU TE S OF MARCH 8 2011

Item 9, Report No . 11, of the Committee of th e Whole, which was adopted without amendme nt by the Council of the City of Vaughan on March 8, 2011 .

UNLEASHED DOGS

The Committee of the Whole recommends approval of the re com mendatio n contained in the foll owing resolution submitted by Coun cillor Shefman, dated February 22,201 1:

Member's Resolution

Whereas, th ere has been a recent attack of an unleashed dog in our City, and

Whereas. residents of th e immediate area where the attack took place and beyond have expresse d their concern regarding the g rowing number of unleashed dogs in our parks and on our streets.

Therefore , be it resolved, th at staff develop a commu nication strategy forthwith to make dog owners aware of their responsibi li ty to manage th eir pets as required by law: and that staff provide a report to a future Committee of th e Whole meeting re garding actions taken in response to un leashed dogs and dog attacks in t he community.

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ATTACHMENT#2

~ MUNICIPAL COMPARATIVE CHART

Municipality Pet Store Restriction

Biting/Menacing Dogs Restrictions

(ie: Muzzle Order, Designation)

Fee for Appeal Process

Feeding of Wildlife or

Use of Attractants Restriction

Prohibited Species Restrictions

Constrictor Snakes Raptors

V aughan Proposed Proposed Proposed Proposed Proposal to prohibit all constrictors

Proposed

All snakes which reach

Toronto YES YES YES NO an adult length larger than 3 metres are

YES

prohibited Snakes that re ach an

Mississauga YES YES YES YES adult length larger than YES 3 metres are prohibited

Brampton NO YES YES NO All constrictors prohibited

YES

Any member of the family Pythonidae or Boidae, save and except members of the

Oshawa NO YES YES NO family Pythonidae or YES Boidae reaching an adult length of no greater than two (2) metres are prohibited

King ston YES YES Unknown NO Must be contained in public YES

All snakes which reach

Richmond ( BC) YES YES Unknown NO an adult length larger than 3 metres are

YES

prohibited All Pythonidae and Boidae prohibited, all

Markham NO YES Unknown NO other snakes that reach an adult leng th

YES

larger than 3 metres prohibited

NO Unknown All Pythonidae and Richmond Hill (currently being YES NO Boidae prohibited YES

proposed)

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STAFF REPORT ACTION REQUIRED

Regulating the Sale of Cats and Dogs in Pet Shops

Date: January 21, 2013

To: Licensing and Standards Committee

From: Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards

Wards: All

Reference P:\2013\Cluster B\MLS\LS13002

Number:

SUMMARY

The purpose of this report is to update the Licensing and Standards Committee on the effectiveness of regulating the sale of cats and dogs in pet shops.

This report recommends amendments to Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 545 Licensing Article XX Pet shops and Appendix K Business Licensing Thresholds Schedule B Demerit Point System.

The Legal Services Division was consulted in the preparation of this report.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards, recommends that:

1. City Council amend Article XX, Pet Shops, of the Toronto Municipal Code, Chapter 545, Licensing, in accordance with Appendix A:

a. To define the term “rescue group”; b. To repeal § 545-255C; c. To amend § 545-262 to further restrict the sources from which pet shops

may obtain cats and dogs for sale to members of the public; and d. To amend Appendix K, Business Licensing Thresholds, Schedule B,

Demerit Point System by adding demerit points for contraventions of §§ 545-255A, 545-255B, 545-256A and 545-262; and

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2. City Council direct the City Solicitor to prepare the necessary bill(s) to make such by­

law amendments as may be required to give effect to the recommendations in this report.

Public Notice has been given in the manner prescribed in the Toronto Municipal Code, Chapter 162, Notice, Public.

Financial Impact The recommendations contained in this report will have no financial impact to the City beyond what has already been approved in the current year’s budget.

The Deputy City Manager and Chief Financial Officer has reviewed this report and agrees with the financial impact information.

DECISION HISTORY At its meeting of August 13, 2010, The Licensing and Standards Committee requested a report from the Executive Director of Municipal Licensing and Standards respecting the sale of cats and dogs with a request to submit a report to the Committee in the new term of Council. (http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2010/ls/bgrd/backgroundfile-32590.pdf) and (http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2010/ls/bgrd/backgroundfile-33004.pdf.)

The Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards reported to the Licensing and Standards Committee at its meeting of May 31, 2011. The Licensing and Standards Report, entitled "Banning the Sale of Cats and Dogs in Pet Shops", responded to more than 30 submissions made to the Chair of the Committee in support of banning the sale of cats and dogs in pet shops in the City of Toronto. The Report recommended amendments to Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 545, Licensing, Article XX, Pet Shops, to restrict pet shops from offering cats and dogs for sale if the cats and dogs were obtained from home breeding operations. (http://www toronto ca/legdocs/mmis/2011/ls/bgrd/backgroundfile-38291 pdf)

At its meeting of September 21, 2011 City Council adopted recommendations to amend Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 545, Licensing, Article XX, Pet Shops. City Council further added requirements that pet shops provide health assessment reports from a licensed vet for all cats and dogs kept in the store, and that all retailers, including any person or business that sells more than 10 dogs per year, to obtain animals from specified sources.

City Council also adopted a series of recommendations for implementation of the new provisions, with a request for the Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards to report back in one year of the effectiveness of regulating the sale of cats and dogs in pet shops. http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2011.LS4.3

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ISSUE BACKGROUND To address public concerns regarding the sale of cats and dogs by pet shops, City Council, at its September 2011 meeting, enacted By-Law No. 1163-2011 to amend Article XX Pet Shops, of the Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 545 Licensing to ensure that cats and dogs sold in pet shops were not obtained from illegal home breeding operations.

City Council additionally adopted recommendations directing the Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards (ML&S) to:

a. Encourage the public to report the existence of puppy/kitten mills; b. Work with the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

(OSPCA) on a continual basis to determine the existence of puppy/kitten mills;

c. Investigate sales of cats and dogs through home based operations; d. Take appropriate action regarding pet shops found to have obtained cats and

dogs from an unspecified source, including revocation of licence; and e. Undertake all appropriate and necessary enforcement action.

City Council also directed the Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards to report on the implementation of these recommendations in one year.

COMMENTS Public Awareness Both the 311 and Animal Services websites provide information to the public on reporting concerns affecting animal care and well-being. TAS also uses public outreach opportunities to remind the public of the various ways they can report concerns about the health and safety of animals (including those in pet stores, within a residential dwelling or in public). While most calls are directed to 311 and Toronto Animal Services, the public may also contact the Business Licensing Enforcement Unit directly for pet shop concerns and Investigation Services directly for suspected home breeding operations.

To expand awareness regarding illegal home breeding operations, TAS is considering developing a communications strategy that would assist the public in identifying potential illegal home breeding operations and how to report them.

Irrespective of the origin of the complaint, all investigations involve joint efforts with Animal Services to ensure compliance with relevant by-laws (Animals, Licensing, Property Standards and Zoning). Where appropriate, the OSPCA is contacted to assist with rights of entry and the removal of animals in distress.

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Pet Shops Enforcement Actions Seven complaints were received from the public specifically related to pet shops offering kittens for sale and concern regarding where they were obtained. However, interpretation of existing by-law provisions was not clear that kittens/cats sold in pet shops were also required to be obtained from specified sources, leading to ambiguity and confusion.

Licensing Enforcement continually and proactively inspects all businesses, including pet shops. There are currently 29 licensed pet shops operating in Toronto. Since September 2011, there have been 29 inspections initiated by Licensing Enforcement under the Licensing By-law. Nine charges were laid for various violations. No charges were laid for pet shops obtaining animals from sources not specified in the By-law.

Animal Services also initiated nine investigations relating to pet shops for violations under the Animals By-law. No charges were laid relating to concerns for animal care.

In addition to set fines for by-law convictions, the Licensing By-law utilizes a demerit system to assign demerit points related to the convictions. Depending on the nature of the conviction, demerits range from zero (least severe) to three (most severe). For example, a pet shop convicted for failing to feed animals/birds is assigned two demerit points; a pet shop convicted for violating provisions by displaying a bird in the shop window is assigned one demerit point.

Business licensing thresholds establish that licensees (or in this case, a pet shop) who accumulate seven or more by-law demerit points within a 12-month period run the risk of (1) having the licence suspended, (2) having their licence renewal refused by the ML&S, (3) having conditions placed on the licence, or (4) having ML&S recommend a revocation of the business licence to the Licensing Tribunal.

Animal "Home Breeding" Operations Concerns regarding home breeding activities are forwarded to Investigation Services where joint investigations with TAS are conducted. Since September 2011, Animal Services responded to 154 complaints regarding "too many animals". In all cases, the property is reviewed in respect to a potential illegal home breeding operation.

Puppy/kitten mills operating in a residential property may violate the intended permitted use of the property as determined by the Zoning By-law. In situations where TAS and Investigation Services determine that evidence supports a home breeding operation and where the health and well-being of animals are at risk, ML&S co-ordinates with the OSPCA to gain access to the property.

Since September 2011, only one investigation has been conducted due to a suspected illegal home breeding operation. In this instance, the homeowner was co-operative with ML&S officers, allowing entry into the residence and inspection of the property. ML&S determined that no illegal breeding operations were occurring. There have been no concerns regarding illegal home breeding operations raised by the OSPCA.

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By-Law Amendments The following by-law amendments are recommended to clarify the amendments made in By-Law 1163-2011 and to further prevent and restrict pet shops from selling cats and dogs obtained from home breeding operations:

i) Defining “Rescue Group” By-Law 1163-2011 added, among others, section 545-262 to Chapter 545, Licensing:

§ 545-262. Retailers to obtain animals from specified sources. Every retailer, including any person or business that sells more than 10 dogs per year, must obtain animals from one of the following sources only:

i. municipal animal shelters; ii. registered humane societies; iii. registered shelters or rescue groups; or iv. from people who have surrendered their pets to them at no charge.

The term "rescue group" in subsection 262iii above is not defined. As a rule, By-laws seek to be as clear as possible. The addition of definition of "rescue group" will help to add additional clarity to the bylaw (that is, without a clear definition, pet shops may be able to use the vagueness in the by-law to expand the types of groups from which they obtain cats and dogs).

ii) Removal of requirement to provide health information for all cats and dogs. It is recommended that 545-255C be deleted. This section requires pet shops to provide individuals who obtain/purchase a cat or dog from a pet shop "a health assessment report from a veterinarian for ALL cats and dogs kept in the store that receive veterinary care".

This current wording implies that for every cat or dog purchased, the purchaser must receive veterinary care information for every cat and dog in the store, in addition to the health information of the purchased cat or dog.

545-255A already requires that pet shops provide individuals purchasing a cat or dog "an up-to-date certificate of health from a veterinarian with respect to such a dog or cat".

iii) 545-262. Retailers to obtain animals from specified sources It is recommended that this section be amended in three ways: removal of the words “including any person or business that sells more than 10 dogs per year”; deletion of paragraph iv. “people who have surrendered their pets to them at no charge”; and finally, to use the term “Pet Shops” rather than “retailers” in the section. Together, the amendments will clarify the provision, enhance enforcement abilities and further restrict the sources from which pet shops may obtain cats and dogs. The provision will read:

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§ 545-262. Pet Shops to obtain animals from specified sources. Eve1y pet shop must obtain animals fro m only th e follow somces: A. 1mmicipal animal shelters; B. registered human e societies; C. registered shelters; or D . rescue groups.

The wording of existing provisions led to confusion and ambiguity, creating challenges for enforcement. For instance, "retailers" was an lmdefmed term and inconsistent with the Aliicle, which uses the term " Pet Shops". The amended removal of the wording, "including any person or business that sells more than 10 dogs per year" is recommended because it has led to confusion about whether the term was meant to exempt certain types of retailers fr om the restrictions contained within the section .

Additionally, staff recommend the deletion of "people who have smTendered their pets to them at no charge" as specified somce (contained in iv of the cmTent section). In om view, this provision may unintentionally allow operators ofpuppy/kitten mills and home breeding operations to provide cats and dogs to pet shops.

iv) Demerit Point System- Amendments to Appendix K Business Licensing Thresholds; Schedule B

To facilitate and ensme consistency in enforcement, Chapter 545 prescribes a system of demerit points for contraventions of the Chapter. The amendments to Chapter 545 added by By-Law No. 1163-20 11 are not cmTently assigned any demerit points. It is recommended that Appendix K, Schedule B be amended to add the following demerit points:

Ty pe Short Fo rm Wording Section Po ints

Pet Shop Pet Shop - Fail to Keep Register 545-256A 1

Pet Shop Pet Shop - Fail to Provide Receipt o r Health Certificate 545-255A 1

Pet Shop Pet Shop - Fail to Post Notice Advising Customers to the 545-2558 1 Required Content of the Receipt

Pet Shop Pet Shop - Fail to Obtain Animals from Specified Sources 545-262 2

In an attempt to restrict illegal puppy/kitten mills an d home breeding operations from flomishing in the City, Municipal Licensing and Standards has developed an enforcement approach through interdivisional an d extem al partnerships that include th e public and the OSPCA.

ML&S investigates and enforces animal-based complaints as it pe1iains to its three main operational units, Animal Services, Business Licensing Unit an d Investigation Services, and liaises where appropriate with the OSPCA and other city divisions.

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_______________________________

ML&S is also currently undertaking a review of Chapter 349 Animals to enhance animal care and well-being and to consider provisions regarding illegal home breeding operations.

CONTACT Elizabeth Glibbery Manager, Toronto Animal Services Municipal Licensing and Standards Tel: 416-338-1476 Email: eglibber@toronto.ca

SIGNATURE

Tracey Cook Executive Director Municipal Licensing and Standards

ATTACHMENTS Appendix A: Recommended Amendments to Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 545 Licensing, Article XX Pet Shops

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5.4 .~ ..

.•··. 7.

Memorandum

TO: All Municipalities in Ontario

FROM: Crystal Greer, Director of Legislative Services and City Clerk

DATE: September 28, 2012

SUBJECT: Banning the Sale of Cats and Dogs in Pet Stores

The (:ouncil of the Corporation of the City ofMississauga at its meeting on September 26, 2012, adopted the enclosed Resolution 0218-2012 with respect to forwarding Recommendation GC­0477-2012 bam1ing the sale of cats and dogs from licensed pet shops that was adopted at Council on July 4, 2012.

GC-0477-2012 1. That a by-law be enacted to amend Schedule 20 of the Business Licensing By-law 1-06,

as amended, to require pet shops to provide every purchaser of a cat or dog with a health assessment from a licensed veterinarian for all cats and dogs kept in the shop that receive veterinary care; and, that all pet shops that sell more than 10 cats or dogs per year, obtain these animals :from one of the following sources only: municipal animal shelters; registered humane societies; registered shelters or rescue groups.

2. That staff conduct quarterly proactive inspections of licensed pet shops that sell cats and/or dogs.

3. That staff work with the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Investigation Unit on a continual basis to determine if any infonnation exists related to the existence of kitten and puppy mills in Mississauga; and, that staff take appropriate enforcement action with local pet shops in Mississauga if these issues are uncovered.

4. That pet shops be pennitted to sell their existing inventory of cats and/or dogs up to and including December 31, 2012 and that all future cat and/or dog acquisitions by pet shops who sell more than 10 cats or dogs per year be from one of the following sources only: municipal animal shelters; registered humane societies; registered shelters or rescue groups and that staff work with pet shop owners on a program for animal licensing, in accordance with the amendments to Schedule 20 of the Animal Licensing By-law 1-06, as amended.

5. That the Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services be requested to provide additional support to the_Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) so that they can take further action against puppy mills in the Province of Ontario.

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Sincerely,

Crystal Greer City of Mississauga Corporate Services Department Director of Legislative Services and City Clerk 905-615-3200, Ext 5419

Enc.

25

MISSISSAUGA.

RESOLUTION 0218-2012 adopted by the Council of

The Corporation of the City of Mississauga at its meeting on September 26, 2012

0218-2012 Moved by: Pat Saito Seconded by: Sue McFadden

That the Clerk forward Recommendation GC-0477-2012 adopted by Council on July 4, 2012 approving the passing of the By-law to ban the sale of cats and dogs in pet stores to major municipalities in Ontario.

Page 1 of 1

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THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF MISSISSAUGA

BY-LAWNUMBER .0.1~~~_2ot~

A by-law to amend By-law 1-06, as amended, being a Business Licensing By-Law to regulate

the sale of dogs and cats in pet shops

WHEREAS subsection 150(1) oftheMunioipa!Act, 2001 S.O. 2001, c25, as amended, provides that a local munkipality may license, regulate and govern any business wholly or partly carried on within the municipality, even if the business is being carried on from a location outside the municipality;

AND WHEREAS The Council of The Corporation of the City of Mississauga has enacted Bylaw 1-06, as amended, being the Business Licensing Bylaw;

AND WHEREAS Schedule 20 of By-law 1-06, as amended outlines certain terms and conditions of licensing owners ofpet shops, including the entry onto a register details of where · and from whom their animals were acquired; ·

AND WHEREAS in order to halt the proliferation ofkitten and puppy mills, it is necessary to ensure that all acimals offered for sale or otherwise in licensed pet shops are acquired only from certain reputable sources;

NOW THEREFORE The Council ofThe Corporation ofthe City ofMississauga hereby ENACTS as follows:

1. That Schedule 20 ofBy-law 1-06, as amended; is hereby amended by adding the following subsections to Section 3:

(14) provide to every purchaser of a cat or dog a health assessment froin a . licensed veterinarian for all cats and dogs kept in the shop that receive veterinary care.

(15) if such person sells more than 10 cats or dogs per year, obtain these animals from one of the following sources only: murocipal animal shelters; registered humane societies; registered shelters; or rescue groups.

(16) notwithstanding section 3 (15) of this Schedule 20, if such person sells more than 10 cats or dogs per year, be permitted to sell·their existing inventory of cats and/or dogs that are obtained from sources other than those as provided in.section 3(15) ofthis Schedule 20, up to and including December 31, 2012.

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-2­

ENACTED and PASSED this 4 day of JU \~ , 2012.

APPROVED ASTOFORM City Solicitor

MISSISSAUGA n)~UL

Date I2012161-jll.'?

FORM 457 28

Mar 26, 2012

Durham Humane Society needs homes for 31 rescued puppies

By Kristen Calis Oshawa This Week

DURHAM -- The Humane Society of Durham Region has 31 new dogs after investigators uncovered a filthy dog breeding operation in Clarington last week.

After receiving a tip from the public, animal cruelty investigator Debby Houghton attended a property in Clarington on March 22 to find a large group of dogs in unacceptable conditions. She, along with a Clarington animal control officer, found the animals that were used solely for breeding on the property that contains a house, a barn and a large shed.

The dogs were surrendered to the Humane Society and the investigation is ongoing.

The dogs include maltese, maltipoos, yorkshire terriers, corgis, westipoos, miniature schnauzers and mixes. They were found surrounded by feces and urine, and hair so filthy that it was difficult for a veterinarian to take their temperature at first.

Thanks to the generosity of local grooming salons that donated their services, all of the dogs were bathed and groomed within hours of arrival at the shelter, and they've all received vet care.

"They are lovely dogs," said Ms. Houghton. "We're talking about puppies that are nine weeks old to maltese that are as old as four."

The dogs will have some social issues from living in unsocialized conditions, but thanks to their young age, they should adjust quickly.

"Even though their social situation was minimized they should turn around quite nicely," she said.

Some, for example, have trouble walking on a leash since it's a completely foreign task for them, and they will require some extra patience and love.

This new addition of dogs puts some strain on the humane society. It now has 56 dogs in its care and is looking for responsible and caring people to take them home.

"We want them to go to their forever home and go to home that will give them love they should be getting," said Ms. Houghton.

For information on the dogs call 905-665-7430 or visit them at 1505 Wentworth St. in Whitby.

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