Justice for Animals: Quanto’s Law Comes Into Effect

Par Sarah D. Pinsonnault, avocate

By Sarah D. Pinsonnault

As of July 23rd 2015, a new offence has been added to the Canadian Criminal Code that prohibits the killing or wounding of animals who have been trained to help persons with disabilities or animals that assist law enforcement officers or the Canadian Armed Forces. Now anyone convicted of such an offence could face up to five years in prison.

The summary of this Act reads as follows:

« This enactment amends the Criminal Code to better protect law enforcement animals, military animals and service animals and to ensure that offenders who harm those animals or assault peace officers are held fully accountable. »

Bill C-25 was introduced to honour “Quanto”, a German Sheppard who was stabbed to death in October 2013 while assisting his handler, a constable with the Edmonton Police Services, who was trying to apprehend a fleeing suspect.

Animal lovers will be pleased to see the recognition being given to animals who serve and offer their protection to the public.

To read the full text of the Justice for Animals in Service Act, click here.