The University of Toronto’s law school is launching a new animal law program, a development welcomed by Angela Fernandez, a professor and the program’s director. Fernandez expressed that the program has been long-awaited and is now well-equipped with resources to warrant its official establishment.
While animal law courses have been offered previously, the new program will provide students with a comprehensive study through various avenues such as courses, seminars, fellowships, advocacy outreach, and research opportunities. Unlike other law schools in Canada, the University of Toronto is pioneering the first dedicated animal law program.
In a time when issues like animal welfare, such as incidents at Marineland and animal testing in London, Ontario, are prominent, Fernandez highlighted the importance of gaining insights into the extensive realm of animal law. Kate Shackleton, a third-year law student, acknowledged the interdisciplinary benefits of the program, enhancing her skills as a litigation lawyer.
Advocates emphasize a shift in attitudes towards animals, moving away from regarding them as mere property to recognizing their personhood. Phil Demers, a former Marineland trainer turned activist, praised the 2019 legislation acknowledging whales and dolphins’ personhood, advocating for more legal experts in animal law to shape the legal landscape positively.
The Toronto Humane Society CEO, Phil Nichols, lauded the program launch, foreseeing increased awareness of pet-related laws. More profound exploration of animal law is anticipated to shed light on the implications of not treating animals as property, particularly in contexts like divorce, where pets’ well-being and treatment can have tangible consequences.