Residents of Ontario have until tomorrow night at 11:59 PM to voice their concerns over the Ontario government looking to expand a licensing program that will allow people to train and trail hunting dogs.
Dog hunting and trialing is an illegal and cruel activity. Hunting with dogs involves releasing a pack of hounds to track down animals such as foxes, deer, rabbits and boar. Trailing involves monitoring and training dogs to track animals’ scents and chase them down. Both of these practices have been banned in many countries, but unfortunately, they still occur in some parts of the world.
Dog hunting and trail hunting have been proven to be cruel, unethical practices that endanger animal welfare, human beings, and wildlife. These activities demonstrate little respect for the animals’ lives or the environment and have no place in civil society. We must raise awareness to end such practices, encourage non-violent alternatives to pursuing entertainment, and build a better future for all living creatures.
The Ford government is proposing to grant NEW LICENSES through a one-time, 90-day application period that will allow licenses to be transferred to new owners. MPP of Parry Sound-Muskoka, Graydon Smith, appears excited about the potential law which is a weird flex for the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry. This is the hill he is willing to die on, stating that if the government doesn’t allow more dog hunting and killing facilities, they’ll just go underground.
VOICE YOUR OPINION HERE: https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/019-3685
Before May 18th 2023 at 11:59 PM
Here are some reasons why dog hunting and trailing are wrong:
1. Cruelty to the Dogs
The dogs in these activities are often subjected to inhumane living conditions, forced to travel long distances in crates, and endure harsh training methods. As it is considered a “sport” the dogs lack proper socialisation and do not receive adequate attention. Many hounds are bred for hunting purposes only, and once they love their value, they are often abandoned or put down.
They are not pets but accessories to hunting parties.
2. Danger to Wildlife
Hunting with dogs or trailing can also cause significant hazards to wildlife, with evidence suggesting that it can disturb their natural behaviours and even cause the extinction of some species.
The chase and pursuit by a pack of dogs can cause significant stress on animals, driving them beyond their limits, experiencing panic and fear (not naturally) and leading to prolonged, agonising deaths.
3. Safety Concerns for Humans
Hunting with dogs also poses significant safety risks to humans as well. Several incidents have occurred where hunters and non-hunters have been seriously injured or even killed by the animals. Hunting parties often trespass on private lands, which understandably causes alarm to the landowners.
4. Moral and Ethical Considerations
Dog hunting and trail hunting raise moral and ethical issues concerning the use of animals for entertainment or recreational purposes. It is a cruel, outdated practice that has no place in modern society.
The more people understand the harm caused by dog hunting and trailing, the more likely they oppose it. More and more people are recognising this, leading to changes in legislation to increase the welfare of animals.
If you are passionate about animal welfare, here are some things you can do:
1. Educate yourself about the issue and share accurate information with others.
2. Reach out to your legislators and express your opposition to the law and provide reasons why it’s harmful.
3. Connect with local animal welfare groups also working to stop the law’s passage.
You can volunteer, donate, or help with advocacy efforts.
4. Attend public meetings, hearings, or protests to show your opposition and voice your voice.
Remember that change can happen with awareness and collective efforts. By taking an active stance against dog hunting and trailing, you can play a role in making a positive difference in animal welfare.
Northumberland Queeries 