Puppy mills are now illegal in Ontario following new legislation banning them.
The recently passed PUPS Act imposes strict penalties on those found guilty of operating puppy mills. Under this act, offenders will face a minimum penalty of $10,000. Additionally, there is a $25,000 fine for the death of a dog in such facilities.
The new law also includes measures to protect the welfare of dogs. It is now illegal to inbreed, to breed a female dog more than three times within a two-year period, and to breed a female dog younger than one year old.
Animal advocates support the legislation, arguing that a licensing regime would help make it easier to find and shut down puppy mills. The province aims to ensure better treatment and care for dogs, ending the harsh conditions often found in these illegal breeding operations.
Ted Smith with files from the Canadian Press