Member of Parliament Julie Dabrusin (Toronto-Danforth) is championing a historic petition to update Canada’s animal welfare laws by officially recognizing animals as sentient beings. This move, prompted by growing concerns over outdated legislation, aims to ensure that animals are treated with the respect they deserve.

The petition, organized by Mattie’s Place, an animal rescue service in Toronto, calls for a shift in how animals are legally viewed. Currently, under the Criminal Code of Canada, animals are treated as property, making it difficult to effectively address issues such as neglect and abuse effectively. The petition seeks to amend the law by introducing a new section entitled Offenses Against Animals, which would replace the current classification of animals under Offenses Against Rights of Property.

“The petition has been signed by citizens and, importantly, by companion animals in our community. They are asking for recognition of animal sentience because animals do feel joy, pain, and fear,” Dabrusin said in her presentation to the House of Commons. “They have feelings, and they deserve to have their welfare better protected.”

The petition calls for two key changes:

1. Recognition of animal sentience. It urges the Canadian government to formally recognize animals as sentient beings, capable of experiencing emotions like humans, rather than property.
2. Enhanced welfare protections. The petition demands the new legislation requires animal owners and those in charge of animals to ensure their welfare, with legal accountability for neglect or abuse.

Dabrusin expressed her gratitude to Mattie’s Place for organizing the petition, highlighting the organization’s critical role in advocating for animal welfare. “I would like to thank Mattie’s Place for its advocacy and for its organization of this petition,” she said.