I say it's about time and this is something that should implemented all across the nation, not just in Ontario.
The province of Ontario has announced it is allocated $5.5 million a year to the Ontario SPCA to create a special "investigations unit" that will be dedicated to enforcing "animal rights" laws basically. The group will police zoos, aquariums, puppy mills and the like. It will also offer an around the clock call centre to help enforce animal welfare rules.
"Why bother with such an expense," I can hear some saying, "it's just an animal." I can't put into words how much that statement bothers me. They may not be able to express themselves verbally like a human can but there's no way you can tell me an animal doesn't have feelings and can't be hurt.
They can't speak up for themselves so if we don't, who will?
A recent happening in Yorkton that was plastered all over Facebook just highlights the fact that there needs to be repercussions when animal abuse rears it's ugly head. The happening drew attention and comments from hundreds. For those who didn't hear about it, basically, two local teens, men actually (they are 19) decided to use a cat as a bowling ball. I'm not going to glorify their actions and get into all of the details, but they broadcast their stupidity on Facebook and now they are dealing with the aftermath as apparently charges are pending and I say GOOD.
Sadly, what these guys did pales in comparison to some of the despicable and unspeakable acts that happen. People who do these things have no place in my heart or sympathy. And they should be held accountable.
"A fair and just society must protect the animals who live among us," says Ontario's minister of community safety. And I wholeheartedly agree. "It is our job to protect those in society who do not have a voice."
Just like human rights need protecting, all living creatures deserve compassion.
We may not have $5 million to spend annually in Saskatchewan but certainly we can do our part as a society to ensure cruelty is kept at bay somehow.
"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." - Mohandas K. Gandhi
