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Alberta is taking a significant step toward improving animal welfare with proposed updates to its long-standing Animal Protection Act.

Introduced as Bill 22, the Animal Protection Amendment Act marks the first major overhaul of the legislation in more than 20 years. The proposed changes aim to modernize the law, strengthen enforcement, and better protect animals across the province.

If passed, the amendments would expand the authority of peace officers, giving them improved tools to respond to cases of animal distress and ensure compliance with the law. Notably, inspections would extend beyond traditional settings to include facilities such as boarding and grooming businesses—areas where animals are frequently under the care of others.

Penalties for animal cruelty would also see a significant increase. Maximum fines could rise from $20,000 to $250,000, with serious offences carrying the possibility of jail time of up to 12 months.

The legislation also takes aim at repeat offenders. Proposed changes would enhance how court orders are issued and enforced, while introducing a first-of-its-kind measure allowing Alberta to recognize and enforce animal protection orders from other provinces and territories.

According to Agriculture and Irrigation Minister RJ Sigurdson, the bill reflects Alberta’s commitment to ensuring animals are treated with care and respect.

Stakeholder feedback played a key role in shaping the proposed amendments. Consultations included input from animal welfare organizations, livestock representatives, veterinarians, municipalities, and First Nations.

Animal welfare advocates have welcomed the changes, noting that stronger enforcement tools and clearer legislation will help better protect animals and support those responsible for their care.

If passed, the updated act would position Alberta among the leading provinces in Canada when it comes to animal protection.

Information for this article was sourced from the Government of Alberta website