Tethering of sled dogs still an issue

Date: April 5, 2011

Vancouver Humane Society and LUSH Cosmetics disappointed in sled dog report

The Vancouver Humane Society (VHS) and LUSH Cosmetics have expressed disappointment at the recommendations of the B.C. government’s Sled Dog Task Force but are pleased with improvements to provincial animal cruelty laws.  LUSH and VHS have been campaigning for a ban on the sled dog industry.

VHS says the task force did not deal with the issue of tethering of sled dogs, which has been referred to a working group.

“We remain concerned about the standards of care for sled dogs,” said VHS executive director Debra Probert.  “The tethering of dogs for long periods is inhumane and unacceptable.” She said the working group must ban the tethering of sled dogs.

Probert also expressed concern that regulation of the industry would be difficult because sled dog operations were often in isolated areas and difficult to monitor.

LUSH campaigns manager Brandi Halls said: “LUSH is disappointed that the sled dog industry is going to continue in this province. While tougher animal cruelty laws are a step in the right direction, the task force’s recommendations leave much to be desired for those of us demanding actual improvements to the welfare of sled dogs.”

VHS welcomed the B.C. government’s decision to increase fines and jail terms for convictions under the provincial Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.