Legislation
The Society now has stronger legislation in place to protect animals. In January, 2010, The Animal Protection Act was proclaimed. It replaced the Animal Cruelty Prevention Act, which had been in place since 1996.
Society Peace Officers have significant power under the Act. Violators can be fined for a first or second offense not more than $5,000 and in default of payment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both fine and imprisonment. A third offense would net a fine not more than $10,000 and in default of payment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both fine and imprisonment. More importantly, the courts can now prohibit the ownership of animals to the violators of this legislation, and may impose a lifetime ban preventing them from ever owing animals again.
The Society has one Provincial Investigator, aided by numerous Special Constables appointed by the Department of Justice, throughout the province. The majority of these Special Constables are volunteers. SPCA Special Constables may seize and impound (when necessary) animals found in neglect or that are being cruelly treated. Seized animals may be reclaimed if conditions are corrected and all expenses of seizure and examination by a veterinarian are paid. The SPCA also enforces sections of the Criminal Code of Canada which pertain to cruelty to animals.
In many cases, animals are left to exist in conditions far below the acceptable standards because they have no voice of their own. SPCA Special Constables rely heavily in information received from concerned citizens to lead them to animals in need of the Society's help. All calls to the Society are kept in confidence. However, if the abuse is extreme, you may be called as a witness. Court trials are always the last resort, as the NSSPC will attempt to provide humane education first. It is their job to speak for those who are unable to speak for themselves.
Read more about this topic: Nova Scotia Society For The Prevention Of Cruelty
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