Transcript-Pet Laws

 

Intro: There’s usually public outrage when a case of animal abuse is discovered, but New Brunswick pet laws don’t provide as much protection as you might think. Allison Toogood has more…

I’m at the Cityview dog park here in Fredericton and the dogs here enjoy running around and playing with their owners. Sadly, not every pet in New Brunswick has the feeling of being part of the family.

New Brunswick’s pet laws state that domestic animals are the property of their owners, just like an old piece of furniture. Our province lags behind the rest of the country as the legislation hasn’t been touched since the late 19^th century. This means that pets can be destroyed at their owners’ will and some forms of abuse are actually legal.

In an upcoming episode of the Basement Tapes, I’m going to explore the consequences of New Brunswick’s ancient pet laws and speak with those who want them changed. Back to you.