Who handles animal welfare?
Animal Welfare
Animal welfare spans all levels. Federal handles Criminal Code protections and species at risk, provinces enforce provincial animal welfare laws, and municipalities manage pet licensing and animal control.
⚠️ Shared Jurisdiction: This area involves multiple levels of government. The information below shows the primary responsibility at each level, but overlap is common. When in doubt, start with the level most directly related to your issue.
Federal
Parliament of Canada
- ● Animal cruelty (Criminal Code)
- ● Species at Risk Act
- ● Food animal welfare standards
- ● CFIA enforcement
💡 Example: Report animal cruelty to the RCMP, or contact your MP about animal protection laws.
Provincial
Provincial Legislature
- ● Provincial animal welfare acts and SPCAs
- ● Wildlife management and hunting regulations
- ● Exotic animal regulation
- ● Provincial livestock protection
💡 Example: Contact your provincial SPCA or animal welfare office.
Municipal
City / Town Hall
- ● Animal control and by-law enforcement
- ● Pet licensing
- ● Dangerous dog designations
- ● Municipal off-leash areas
💡 Example: Contact your municipal animal control or 311 about stray animals.
Quick Reference — Who to Contact
🏛️ Federal
Your Member of Parliament (MP)
🏢 Provincial
Your MPP, MLA, or MNA
🏘️ Municipal
Your City Councillor
Ready to Take Action?
Use MyCivicVoice to find your representatives and draft a letter about the issues that matter to you.
Take Action →