Bill C-615: An Act to amend the Criminal Code (cruelty to animals—electric shock collars)

C-615 Second Session, Forty-first Parliament, 62-63 Elizabeth II, 2013-2014 HOUSE OF COMMONS OF CANADA BILL C-615 An Act to amend the Criminal Code (cruelty to animals —electric shock collars) first reading, June 12, 2014 Mr. Stewart 412114 SUMMARY This enactment amends the Criminal Code by banning the use of electric shock collars on companion animals. Available on the Parliament of Canada Web Site at the following address:http://www.parl.gc.ca 2nd Session, 41st Parliament, 62-63 Elizabeth II, 2013-2014 house of commons of canada BILL C-615 An Act to amend the Criminal Code (cruelty to animals —electric shock collars) Whereas the use of electric shock collars on companion animals serves to negatively impact their physical, social and psychological well-being and quality of life; Whereas scientific research has demonstrated that the use of electric shock collars on companion animals causes an increase in their levels of fear, anxiety, stress and aggression; Whereas the use of electric shock collars, having been recognized as an inhumane practice, has been banned or restricted in numerous countries; Whereas there are alternative methods for effectively training companion animals without inflicting needless pain and suffering; And whereas Canadians are committed to protecting animal welfare and preventing cruelty against animals in all forms; R.S., c. C-46 Now, therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Commons of Canada, enacts as follows: 1. Subsection 445.1(1) of the Criminal Code is amended by striking out “or” at the end of paragraph (d), by adding “or” at the end of paragraph (e) and by adding the following after paragraph (e): (f) uses an electric shock collar on a companion animal or, being the owner, permits an electric shock collar to be used on such an animal. Published under authority of the Speaker of the House of Commons