Stop Puppies From Slipping Through the Cracks
It’s a trend that took some by surprise, us included. There has been a sustained spike in the number of puppies surrendered to the OHS. Many of these puppies come to the OHS as entire litters, suggesting they are a result of supply outpacing demand.
People who care about animals know that puppies aren’t simply stock to be replenished and sold off. Puppies become dogs, and they are a 10+ year commitment. Responsible breeders have a role to play in starting that puppy off on the right paw.
Last year, Ontario took a step forward in shutting down puppy mills with the PUPS amendment. It was a good start, but it’s time to go further.
The OHS is urging Ontario to strengthen its puppy mill legislation. We’ve identified critical gaps in the legislation that remain unaddressed and leave animals suffering.
Ontario’s animals need help now, and we have launched a petition for Ontario to take the next steps in stopping suffering for puppies and their mothers. Ontario must:
- Establish a breeder registry to ensure oversight, accountability and responsible breeding practices.
- Require breeders to properly socialize puppies to ensure their physical, behavioural, and emotional well-being.
- Provide transparent reporting where appropriate for animal welfare cases involving puppy mills to improve public trust in Ontario’s protections for animals.
Add your signature to the petition to show the government more must be done to protect Ontario’s puppies and their mothers from cruel breeding practices. Together, we can stop this cruelty.
Sharon Miko
President & CEO