The legislation will improve transparency and public accountability in animal welfare enforcement
The Saskatchewan government has introduced The Animal Protection Amendment Act, 2025 to improve transparency and public accountability in animal welfare enforcement.
The new law reforms The Animal Protection Act, 2018. The ministry of agriculture called for changes to the legislation after consulting with service providers, producer groups and other stakeholders earlier this year.
The amended law, which was introduced on November 19, ensures that animal welfare enforcement is consistent and equitable throughout Saskatchewan, the government said.
The Animal Protection Amendment Act, 2025 incorporates the following changes:
- Animal welfare inspector positions introduced to educate the public and livestock industry members on animal care
- Authority granted to secure telewarrants easing animal distress
- Code of conduct implemented for animal protection officers and animal welfare inspectors
- Chief officer position created to manage officer conduct
- Authority granted to set up an appeals board adjudicating matters of animal disposition and owner liabilities for expenses
The law is set to be passed in spring 2026.
“Our government wants to ensure provincial legislation reflects evolving changes to international trade requirements and changing expectations of the public regarding animal welfare enforcement. These amendments provide the flexibility and enhancements needed to accomplish these goals,” said Daryl Harrison, Saskatchewan’s agriculture minister, in a statement.
The government started a public Request for Proposal competition for organizations to get involved in animal welfare enforcement. The government will collaborate with the winning service provider to develop a sustainable enforcement model and protect animal welfare under a new legislative framework.
Under The Animal Protection Act, 2018, those charged with animal cruelty can be fined up to $25,000 and/or imprisoned for up to two years. Judges may also restrict animal ownership and order compensation for costs resulting from the seizure of animals, according to Animal Protection Services Saskatchewan.
Last year, British Columbia amended its Family Law Act to consider pets’ best interests in divorce and separation proceedings. The University of Toronto also established an animal law program with an expanded curriculum – the first Canadian law school to offer an animal law program.
