Many farm animals in Canada lead sad lives, in cramped conditions. Hens live out their lives in tiny cages. Pigs are raised in pens so small they can't even turn around. Veal cows are prevented from moving so that their meat is more tender. The list of abuses is extensive.
The European Union is far ahead of Canada in terms of legislation protecting farm animals. In the EU, all animals are afforded the following 5 freedoms:
- Freedom from hunger or thirst by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour
- Freedom from discomfort by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area
- Freedom from pain, injury or disease by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment
- Freedom to express normal behaviour by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal's own kind
- Freedom from fear and distress by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering
Canada does not offer any such protection. Please join me in petitioning the Canadian government to afford the "5 Freedoms" to all farm animals in Canada.
Dear Mr Ritz,
Many farm animals in Canada lead sad lives, in cramped conditions. Hens live out their lives in tiny cages. Pigs are raised in pens so small they can't even turn around. Veal cows are prevented from moving so that their meat is more tender. The list of abuses is extensive.
In Canada, there are 3 sets of legislation that protect these animals - the Health of Animals Act, the Meat Inspection Act, and - in extreme cases- the Criminal Code. None really address the keeping, and caring of animals on farms.
The European Union is far ahead of Canada in terms of legislation protecting farm animals. In the EU, all animals are afforded the following 5 freedoms:
- Freedom from hunger or thirst by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour
- Freedom from discomfort by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area
- Freedom from pain, injury or disease by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment
- Freedom to express normal behaviour by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal's own kind
- Freedom from fear and distress by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering
Canada does not offer any such protection. Will you please legislate the 5 Freedoms for all farm animals in Canada?
