The N.W.T. SPCA is urging the territorial government to reconsider recognizing domestic animals as sentient beings rather than mere property, as outlined in the Dog Act, a piece of legislation in the Northwest Territories. Under the current law, dogs are deemed the property of their owners, allowing for actions like selling or giving away a dog if the owner is taken into custody.
The SPCA has been receiving feedback from both tourists and residents expressing concerns about animal welfare in the region for years. They believe that the existing legislation restricts authorities from intervening effectively, stating that the current standards, such as access to food, water, and shelter, may not address more intricate welfare issues.
Jennifer Friedman, an animal welfare lawyer from Toronto, mentioned that pets being considered property is a common practice in various regions in Canada, including Ontario. While some provinces like British Columbia have started expanding criteria for considering pets in family disputes, Friedman emphasized the importance of enforcing animal protection laws rather than just having them in place.
The Department of Municipal and Community Affairs, responsible for administering the Dog Act, stated that there are no immediate plans to revise the legislation, emphasizing that any changes would need to align with broader legislative priorities. Minister Vince McKay highlighted that the act serves as a foundation document for municipalities to decide on animal welfare matters, acknowledging the need for a tailored approach rather than a universal solution.
McKay acknowledged the aging of the Dog Act and hinted at a potential review in the future, emphasizing the importance of having a baseline to protect communities lacking the capacity to establish their own bylaws while allowing communities to enhance animal protection through their regulations.