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Farmers raise livestock because they like working with animals. Most know too
that properly cared for animals are more productive which means a better income
for them and their families. Nevertheless, there are controls in place to help
ensure that farm animals are raised responsibly.
Agriculture and food production are subject to laws and regulations governing
animal treatment. Ontario Farmers are subject to laws outlined in the Criminal
Code of Canada, as well as the provincial Society for the Prevention of Cruelty
to Animals (SPCA) Act. Provisions included in these pieces of legislation
protect animals from "unnecessary pain, injury, suffering or
neglect". Offences are punishable by law.
Specific government and industry regulations are also in force to control the
production, transportation, marketing and processing of livestock and poultry.
These regulations take into consideration humane issues, and penalize those
found to be in violation.
Recommended Codes of Practice are currently in place for poultry, hogs, veal,
dairy cattle, beef cattle, deer, horses, sheep, animals raised on farms for
their fur, and livestock transportation. These Codes have been designed to
guide farmers, handlers, transporters, and processors in their practices. The
codes have been drafted through close consultation with producers, government
researchers and industry.
Each segment of the agriculture and food sector also has in place various inspection,
training, and education programs to deal specifically with animal care and handling
issues. These programs have proven to be an effective method of addressing problems
and concerns and have aided in the overall improvement of standards.
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