New rules make it mandatory for veterinarians to report suspected animal abuse and neglect

Saskatchewan is updating the law governing animal protection in the province.

Agriculture Minister Lyle Stewart introduced amendments to the Animal Protection Act on Monday afternoon.

The changes will make it mandatory for veterinarians to report suspected neglect or abuse.

Protection worker welcomes change

"That's important because there's a really well documented link between abuse to people and abuse to animals,"saidKaleyPugh, executive director of Animal Protection Services.

"And quite often veterinarians know things that are happening to animals, and then sometimes their people as well, that no one else knows about."

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The rules willbroaden the definition of distress to include unsanitary conditions andheat and cold that could lead to injuries.

Animal protection officers (APO) willhave the ability to issue corrective action orders and inspect locations where services for animals are provided, including kennels, veterinary offices andslaughterhouses.

Rules will keep kennel ownersontheir toes: minister

Pugh said her organization lays charges in about 20 cases a year. In most cases, there is a conviction. There arefive other animal protection agencies in the province that lay charges.

Minister Stewart said the changes will keep people who run slaughterhouses and kennels on their toes.

"They'll make sure they're in compliance with the act at all times now, not just when they have been asked for anAPOto visit. They can expect those visits anytime," saidStewart.

"I think these changes are necessary because society demands them and we do want to keep our animals safe and well cared for."

The legislation now prohibits transporting disabled animals and has stricter guidelines on animal euthanasia and slaughter.

The Animal Protection Act was last updated in 2009.