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Runciman Supports Anti-Puppy/Kitten Mill Private Members Bill

QUEEN’S PARK – Bob Runciman, MPP for Leeds-Grenville voted today in support of Conservative MPP for York North, Julia Munro’s Private Member’s Bill that targets puppy and kitten mill operators.

Bill 129, The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment Act 2001 specifically targets individuals, groups or corporations who run puppy/kitten mills. “I am proud of this government and it’s members in their commitment to address the issues of puppy and kitten mills,” said Runciman. “By initiating this type of legislation through a private members bill shows a commitment by this government to promote the individual ideas of the members of our team.”

“This is the first substantive change to this legislation since 1919,” said Runciman. “By implementing a set of standards of care we have the opportunity to eliminate neglect and substandard care. If all breeders were to comply with these standards we would no longer have any puppy or kitten mills in the province of Ontario.”

Runciman understands the cruelty dogs and cats face in these types of operation.

“My daughter Suzanne (an OPP officer) was involved recently in the rescue of dogs from a puppy mill and one of the puppies rescued, Lucky, has become a much-loved member of her family.”

Runciman acknowledges that many people wanted legislation that gave SPCA officers more power but he feels this amendment will produce the desired benefits while not being open to court challenges.

“This is an important step forward,” he said.

“I would urge all Ontarians who are interested in purchasing a puppy or kitten especially during this holiday season, to be extremely watchful of where their puppy/kitten comes from,” said Munro. “With proper legislation and public awareness we can stop this type of inhumane treatment of puppies and kittens who are bred for profit.”

“We appreciate Julia Munro’s support on the puppy mill issue,” said Vicky Earle, CEO of the OSPCA. “While we had hoped that the Government would be in a position to introduce more far-reaching amendments to the Ontario SPCA Act, we welcome any steps that will better protect abused and neglected animals in Ontario,” Earle says.

For immediate Release December 12, 2002
Runciman Supports Anti-Puppy/Kitten Mill Private Members Bill QUEEN’S PARK – Bob Runciman, MPP for Leeds-Grenville voted today in support of Conservative MPP for York North, Julia Munro’s Private Member’s Bill that targets puppy and kitten mill operators. Bill 129, The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment Act 2001 specifically targets individuals, groups or corporations who run puppy/kitten mills. “I am proud of this government and it’s members in their commitment to address the issues of puppy and kitten mills,” said Runciman. “By initiating this type of legislation through a private members bill shows a commitment by this government to promote the individual ideas of the members of our team.” “This is the first substantive change to this legislation since 1919,” said Runciman. “By implementing a set of standards of care we have the opportunity to eliminate neglect and substandard care. If all breeders were to comply with these standards we would no longer have any puppy or kitten mills in the province of Ontario.” Runciman understands the cruelty dogs and cats face in these types of operation. “My daughter Suzanne (an OPP officer) was involved recently in the rescue of dogs from a puppy mill and one of the puppies rescued, Lucky, has become a much-loved member of her family.” Runciman acknowledges that many people wanted legislation that gave SPCA officers more power but he feels this amendment will produce the desired benefits while not being open to court challenges. “This is an important step forward,” he said. “I would urge all Ontarians who are interested in purchasing a puppy or kitten especially during this holiday season, to be extremely watchful of where their puppy/kitten comes from,” said Munro. “With proper legislation and public awareness we can stop this type of inhumane treatment of puppies and kittens who are bred for profit.” “We appreciate Julia Munro’s support on the puppy mill issue,” said Vicky Earle, CEO of the OSPCA. “While we had hoped that the Government would be in a position to introduce more far-reaching amendments to the Ontario SPCA Act, we welcome any steps that will better protect abused and neglected animals in Ontario,” Earle says.
Media contact: Don Swayne Constituency Executive Assistant (613) 342-9522	-30-