WINNIPEG — Animals are well protected in Manitoba, according to a recent report released by the Animal Legal Defense Fund.
The report says Manitoba is leading the pack because of our prohibitions related to animal fighting. Our province also protects animals from psychological harm.
Veterinarians in Manitoba are required to report suspected animal cruelty, and the province has increased penalties for repeat cruelty offenders.
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The nonprofit group has released this report annually for the past nine years. It is the only one of its kind in Canada and ranks each province and territory according to their animal protection laws.
Each province and territory is given a numerical ranking based on the score it receives and is later grouped in tiers.
Saskatchewan is the lowest ranked province and Nunavut is ranked last.
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The study says Nunavut should establish standards of basic care, increase the range of protections, and offer immunity to anyone who reports suspected animal cruelty.
According to the study, big improvements have been made across the country, but there is still room for improvement.
Executive director of the Animal Legal Defense Fund, Steven Wells, said, “we are hopeful that these reports will help garner support for strengthening and enforcement of animal protection laws throughout the country.”
Manitoba has ranked number one for five consecutive years.
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