I strongly oppose the…

I strongly oppose the proposed emend to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act (FWCA) that encourages animal cruelty through the use of hunting dogs. The current existence of 24 enclosed train and trial areas in Ontario, where animals are trapped and taken from their habitats, is already unacceptable. These timid coyotes, frightened foxes, and peaceful cottontails are subjected to a life of intense fear, trauma, and extreme stress as they are relentlessly pursued by dogs.

It is disheartening to see that in 1997, there were plans to phase out this archaic practice, with no new licenses being issued and existing licenses prohibited from being transferred. However, the proposed change would allow for the opening of more train and trial areas and the transfer of existing ones to new owners. This means that these unspeakable practice will not only continue to exist but also become more prevalent. What a huge throwback.

We must take a stand against the inhumane treatment of wildlife before it's too late. More innocent animals will be torn away from their families and forced to endure a life that no living being deserves. It is crucial that we prioritize the well-being and protection of these creatures and work towards more compassionate and ethical approaches to wildlife conservation.

In addition to being cruel and archaic, the proposed practice is also elitist. It promotes favoritism towards the privileged class, further deepening social divides. By expanding the train and trial areas and allowing the transfer of existing ones, this practice reinforces the notion that certain individuals have the right to exploit and subject innocent animals to suffering for their own entertainment. It perpetuates a culture of entitlement where the lives and well-being of wildlife are disregarded.

Furthermore, the proliferation of firearms associated with this practice poses a significant threat to the general safety of the community. The increased presence of firearms can potentially facilitate more crimes against people, jeopardizing the overall security of our society. This is an alarming consequence that should not be overlooked. We must stand against such practices that perpetuate inequality, promote cruelty, and compromise the well-being of both animals and humans alike.

If dog-fighting has been illegal in Canada since 1892, and rightfully so, it raises an important question: What is the difference between dog-fighting and the enclosed train and trial areas for hunting in Ontario? The suffering endured by animals in both cases is undeniably cruel and unacceptable.
This is a clear case of causing unnecessary suffering to animals, which is explicitly deemed a crime under the Criminal Code.

The fundamental difference between dog-fighting and these enclosed areas may lie in the explicit intent and format of the activities. However, the underlying cruelty and harm inflicted upon animals are strikingly similar. Both practices exploit animals for human pleasure and entertainment, disregarding their well-being and violating their basic rights.

I hope the names of the politicians that vote in favor this vexatious emend will be made public. What a shame.

Regina Claudia Madeira
Whitby - Ontario