Association of Animal Shelter Administrators of Ontario applauds the Ontario Government on proposed enhancements to animal welfare legislation

October 11, 2012 – The Association of Animal Shelter Administrators of Ontario (AASAO) is pleased by the commitment made today by the Ontario Government’s Minister of Community Safety & Correctional Services, Madeleine Meilleur, to strengthen animal welfare enforcement in the Province.

The announcement includes the long awaited release of the report of the Animal Welfare Task Force. The Animal Welfare Task Force includes representation from the AASAO and other partners in animal sheltering and government ministries in Ontario. It was struck by the government in response to recommendations brought forward in the Meek-LeSage report.

“The AASAO is committed to the advance of knowledge regarding all aspects of progressive and innovative animal care and control programs and management and welcomes the commitment of the Ontario Government shown in the release of the report and its recommendations for enhancing public health, the operation of shelters, and animal worker health and safety through the “One Health” perspective,” said Kathy Duncan, President of The Association of Animal Shelter Administrators of Ontario.

“As committed members of the Task Force, we look forward to further contributing to discussion surrounding ways to improve animalwelfare province wide. Includingtopics such as enforcement measures and making sure that “best practices” are researched and available to the animal sheltering community.” adds Kent Lattanzio, Past President of the Association and Task Force member.

The AASAO was formed in 1981 and has members from all aspects of animal sheltering across the province of Ontario, including representation from municipal animal services, branches and affiliates of the Ontario SPCA and private contractors providing services in Ontario municipalities.

For more information contact:

Kathy Duncan, President AASAOKent Lattanzio, Past President

416 806 4607or519 685 1330