A new regulation banning “cosmetic surgery” on cats and dogs has just been passed in Quebec.
The ordinance, which will come into effect in 18 months, prohibits the declawing, declawing, tail docking and ear docking of cats and dogs. These procedures will no longer be legal in Quebec unless they are done for medical reasons.
The regulation on the welfare and safety of domestic animals and equidae comes from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food of Quebec.
It also sets out the minimum standards of care for keeping or breeding cats, dogs, guinea pigs, domestic pigs, rabbits, ferrets and equidae, such as socialization, enrichment and exercise.
It would make it illegal to euthanize animals by gassing.
In a news release, the ministry said the regulations will provide specific standards for pet owners and breeders across the province.
“The publication of the regulation is a big step for the protection of animals in Quebec,” said Minister Andre Lamontagne.
Introducing standards into law
The regulation banning cosmetic surgery on pets comes after years of pressure from organizations such as the Order of Veterinarians in Quebec, which banned its members from docking tails or cropping ears in 2017.
However, these bans have never been formally enacted into law – until now.
In a statement to the CBC, the ministry said the 18-month waiting period is to give people and businesses time to comply with the new rules.
However, one rule that will go into effect on August 25 is that newly licensed breeders will be limited to 50 animals.
However, some animal rights advocates say this new rule should also apply to existing operations.
“Anyone who currently has more than 50 animals for breeding purposes will be allowed to continue breeding those animals. And only new breeders applying for permits will not be allowed to have more than 50 animals,” said Sophie Gayard of the Montreal SPCA.
“The measure has been diluted significantly,” Gayard said.
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