Tag: animal welfare

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Looking back at 2024

This new year brings new opportunities to make meaningful change for animals! As we prepare to build on last year’s momentum in 2025, here is a look back on how your support saved lives and built progress for a kinder world. 

Table Of Contents
  1. Watch the video
  2. Getting pets the care they need
  3. Speaking up for animals in entertainment
  4. Advocating for animals in captivity
  5. Protecting farmed animal well-being
  6. Saving animals through plant-based advocacy
  7. A kinder future for all species

Watch the video

A cat wrapped in blankets

Getting pets the care they need

Hundreds of pets received life-saving care

As the shelter and rescue system continues to struggle to meet the needs of rescued and surrendered animals, it is crucial that loving guardians get the support they need to keep their companion animals in their homes. The VHS’s McVitie Fund helps animals get the emergency veterinary care they need to save their lives, avoid being separated from their guardians for financial reasons, and come home to recover with their families.

Last year, 721 animals received life-saving care through the McVitie Fund.

Kind animal lovers like you were here for animals like Bubba, who needed urgent surgery for a life-threatening urinary blockage. His young guardian Cassie, who was emancipated due to challenging life circumstances, was able to take her beloved companion home safe thanks to your support.

Help pets in need

The VHS brought pet first aid to community services

The VHS hosted two pet first aid training courses for service providers who support some of Vancouver’s most placed-at-risk communities in the Downtown Eastside.

With this training, community service providers who work directly with pet guardians every day can treat pets for minor injuries, perform early monitoring, and help animals get the care they need as soon as possible.

Outreach helped pets in Vancouver’s vulnerable communities

At the VHS’s annual Because They Matter event, staff and volunteers met in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside community to share veterinary support resources, pet toys, leashes, harnesses, and more essential supplies with animals and their guardians who spend their days on the streets.

The team handed out hundreds of pet supplies and pamphlets sharing life-saving information about the VHS’s veterinary support programs! Read more about the event in the piece from the Daily Hive.

A portrait of a horse named Ridge Runner before a rodeo in Coombs, British Columbia.
Jordan Rivers / We Animals Media

Speaking up for animals in entertainment

Standing up for animals used in the Calgary Stampede

The VHS and supporters were hard at work advocating to end the suffering of animals at the Calgary Stampede rodeo and chuckwagon races. A widespread campaign ensured that the deadliest event since 2019 would not be forgotten.

The VHS ran billboards throughout the city of Calgary, which gained further awareness through media coverage.

A billboard reads "More than half of Calgarians oppose government funding for rodeo events"

The VHS team closely monitored events to ensure last year’s tragic incidents were tracked and shared with the public through 45 media broadcasts and articles including on Global News, CTV News, CityNews Calgary, and the CBC. Stampede organizers only shared information about animal deaths after the VHS’s team and media contacts made inquiries.

More than 82,000 people visited the RodeoTruth.com website, reaching five times more people than last year’s awareness campaign. Another 5,245 people took the pledge to #SayNoToRodeo and the chuckwagon races at the Calgary Stampede.

Following the campaign, polling showed a a significant increase in public opposition to inhumane rodeo and chuckwagon races and to government funding of these events, both in Calgary and across Canada.

Two opinion pieces were published in this year’s event: The Calgary Stampede rodeo is cruel, stagnant and stuck in the past and Most Calgarians are against Stampede rodeo and chuckwagon events.

Take the #SayNoToRodeo pledge

Opposing inhumane rodeo events in B.C.

The 2024 B.C. rodeo season once again saw many concerning incidents of animal suffering.

The VHS submitted animal cruelty reports in response to particularly concerning incidents in Clinton and Coombs. The shocking incident in Coombs was shared by We Animals Media and eight media outlets.

The VHS and Animal Justice joined together to speak out against a bull riding event in Kelowna.

More than 2,500 people contacted B.C. decision-makers through the VHS’s quick action tool to oppose inhumane rodeo events in B.C. and to call for an end to public funding of these events.

Take action on rodeo

Saying no to horse racing

The VHS and supporters continued to speak out about fatal incidents at Hastings Racecourse in Vancouver. Four horses tragically lost their lives at the racetrack this year.

Public awareness around the dangers of horse racing continues to grow as the VHS shares information about incidents in outlets like Global News, CTV News Vancouver, and City News Vancouver.

Last year, more than 2,900 people took the VHS’s pledge to oppose horse racing events.

Say no to horse racing
Giraffes at Greater Vancouver Zoo

Advocating for animals in captivity

Protecting animals from suffering in zoos and aquariums

The VHS continued to raise awareness about welfare concerns and incidents at zoos and aquariums, including the tragic death of Jenga the giraffe at the Greater Vancouver Zoo after years in a small, barren enclosure, and two fatal incidents at the Calgary Zoo.

More than 1,700 supporters used the VHS’s quick action tool to call for changes to B.C.’s laws around animals in captivity.

Speak up for animals in captivity

Protecting farmed animal well-being

Calling for changes to the farmed animal codes of practice

The National Farm Animal Care Council’s Codes of Practice provide guidance for the care and handling of farmed animals across Canada. Three codes came under revision last year: for horses on farms, for cattle used for meat, and for chickens and turkeys used for meat.

VHS supporters shared crucial feedback during the public input period for these codes, using the VHS’s tips sheets to ensure animal well-being is considered in the review process.

Working to end live horse exports for slaughter

The VHS continued to advocate for an end to Canada’s cruel live horse export industry, sharing shocking exposes, timely actions, and an opinion piece written in collaboration with Animal Justice. Nearly 4,100 people supported the passing of Bill C-355, which would ban the export of horses on dangerous and stressful journeys to slaughter.

Sadly, the bill is currently in legislative limbo with Canada’s Parliament prorogued. Allies are encourage to contact the federal Minister of Agriculture and call for regulations to end the practice.

Photo: Canadian Horse Defence Coalition

Giving Tuesday donors helped farmed animals today and in the future

On Giving Tuesday, the VHS once again partnered with The Happy Herd Farm Sanctuary to raise funds for vital animal supplies to care for rescued animals in a loving forever home, life-saving veterinary support, and advocacy to create meaningful changes for animals.

Incredible animal allies helped keep animals safe and healthy by donating or shopping at participating businesses, and donations were matched by generous sponsors including Panago Pizza, Nora’s, and Plant Veda.

With the support of the community and matching donors, an amazing $28,500 was donated to help animals in need. Supporters of the Vancouver Humane Society and the Happy Herd’s Giving Tuesday campaign helped provide funds…

  • …to cover food for all the cows of the Happy Herd for six months
  • …AND for five vet visits to the Happy Herd
  • …AND to cover food costs for all chickens at the Happy Herd for a year
  • …AND for lifesaving tests for 50 pets in need through the VHS’s McVitie Fund
  • …AND to reach 160,000 animal allies to advocate for meaningful policy changes that will improve animal lives
Overhead photo of a group of young adults sharing a family style plant-based meal from a coffee table

Saving animals through plant-based advocacy

Plant-forward win in the District of North Vancouver

In May 2024, a motion was approved by the District of North Vancouver Mayor and Council to ensure plant-based options are included and prioritized at municipal events, meetings and other gatherings where the District purchases food.  

The motion was supported by local advocates, members of the Plant-Based Cities Movement (PBCM), and VHS supporters who live in the District. The VHS and the PBCM have been working together to advocate for plant-based municipal policies and will continue to support the District of North Vancouver in the implementation of this successful motion. 

This important step forward follows a previous motion in the District passed in March 2022 to grow awareness throughout the community of the health and environmental benefits of increasing the intake of plant-based foods. That motion cited VHS’s report entitled “Increasing Plant-Based Purchasing at the Municipal Level”.

Overhead photo of a variety of vegan plant-based dishes

Plant-based advocacy in Metro Vancouver

The VHS and supporters also advocated for a shift toward plant-based foods in a public input survey for the Metro Vancouver Regional Food Strategy, which is being updated for the first time since 2011. The new strategy will impact the food system for more than half of British Columbians, including activities like:

  • Producing food and making decisions about agricultural land use
  • Serving food, such as through catering and cafeterias
  • Marketing different types of food (e.g. dairy vs. plant-based alternatives)

A plant-forward shift in Metro Vancouver could save hundreds of thousands of animal lives.

Encouraging businesses to embrace plant-based

The VHS launched a free toolkit to help restaurants add plant-based options to their menu with recipe ideas, simple ingredient swaps, and tips to help plant-based options stand out.

Last year also marked the beginning of the VHS’s Dairy-Free for No Fee café certification program, which encourages cafés to remove the surcharge for plant-based milk options and offers perks and marketing opportunities for those that go surcharge-free.

Spreading the word about plant-based eating

Last year, the VHS’s Plant University team dedicated their efforts to making plant-based eating more accessible and providing guidance on simple, compassionate dietary changes.

The VHS partnered with doctors, cooks, and advocates to create new and exciting articles, videos, and recipes for Plant University, the VHS’s plant-based resource website.

Messaging about the health benefits of plant-based eating were also shared throughout Vancouver through bus ads, billboards, and arena ads.

A kinder future for all species

Thank you for making a difference for animals in 2024! Your support is helping to build a more compassionate and humane future. Will you keep the momentum going by taking action on current campaigns to end animal suffering or contributing to vital animal programs and advocacy?

Take action
Donate now
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End fur farming in Canada (Federal e-petition)

A farmed fox peers through the wire mesh of their barren cage at a fur farm. This calico or marble-coated fox will spend their entire life confined, and typically alone, inside this type of cage. Foxes like this individual are used for breeding or will eventually be killed for their fur. Quebec, Canada, 2022. We Animals
Photo: We Animals

Photo: We Animals

  • The Vancouver Humane Society is joining The Fur-Bearers and other organizations across Canada in calling for a national prohibition on fur farming in Canada. 
  • Fur farming causes significant animal suffering and poses serious risks to public health and the environment for the sake of luxury fashion items.
  • More than 20 countries have already banned fur farming or introduced legislation to do so in the coming years.
  • A new federal e-petition, launched by The Fur-Bearers, calls on the Canadian government to ban fur farming for all animal species across the country.

TAKE ACTION: Canadian residents can sign the official parliamentary e-petition until January 27, 2025. After you sign, be sure to click the link in the confirmation email so your signature is counted.

Sign the petition
Learn more

Call on the Canadian government to ban cruel fur farming

Join the Vancouver Humane Society, The Fur-Bearers, MP Gord Johns, and other organizations in urging the federal government to end fur farming across Canada. 

Sign the federal e-petition on the Parliament of Canada website before January 27, 2025, at 6:48 a.m. PST. 

Important: After you sign the petition, be sure to check your email and click the confirmation link to ensure your signature is counted.  

Sign now

Photo: Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Media

Inhumane fur farming persists in Canada despite widespread opposition

There are close to 100 fur farms left in Canada. Animal species that are farmed for their fur include mink, fox, wolves, bobcats, lynxes and chinchillas. 

Although British Columbia banned mink fur farming in 2021, farming other species for their fur is still allowed in the province. There are currently no prohibitions at the national level. 

Polling from 2024 revealed that 78% of Canadians and 81% of British Columbians are against killing animals for their fur. 

Animal welfare concerns

On fur farms, animals are kept in small, wire cages for the entirety of their lives, depriving them of the ability to engage in natural behaviors typical in the wild. This can lead to stress, stereotypic behaviors, and self-mutilation.

Warning: The following video contains graphic footage. Viewer discretion is advised.

Inside Canada’s Fur Farms

Over the past several months, The Association for the Protection of Fur-Bearing Animals obtained footage from inside Canada’s fur farms. This second video shows never-before-seen images of fox and mink suffering in deplorable conditions. Please join us and take the pledge to #MakeFurHistory at www.MakeFurHistory.com.

Public health risks

Animals confined in fur farms have been shown to be hosts for zoonotic diseases. For example, during COVID-19, deadly outbreaks were seen in fur farms globally, including locally in the Fraser Valley. Millions of animals were culled in an attempt to control the spread of the virus.

Environmental degradation

Manure runoff from large industrial fur farms pollutes nearby soil and bodies of water, threatening local animal populations, humans, and ecosystems. 

Take action to ban fur farms now!

Visit furfarming.ca to learn more about The Fur-Bearers’ campaign to ban fur farming across Canada and the organizations that have signed on in support.

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Exotic animals: wildlife, not pets

  • Exotic, non-domesticated animals are being caught, bred, and sold across Canada as part of the inhumane and risky wildlife trade.
  • These animals are then kept as pets, sold commercially, and used at events.
  • Captive environments cannot replicate exotic wild animals’ natural habitats, leading to welfare concerns.
  • The wildlife trade poses a risk to wild animal populations both at home and abroad due to poaching of animals for the pet trade and release of exotic animals into the local ecosystems.

Can you take action to speak up for wild exotic animals caught, bred, and sold in the wildlife trade?

Sign up for action alerts
Learn more

Issues with captive exotic animals

It’s estimated that 1.4 million exotic animals (non-domesticated, non-native animals) are kept as pets across Canada. This includes species like ball pythons, bearded dragons, red ear slider turtles, savannah cats, and crested geckos. Across the Canadian provinces and territories, British Columbia comes in fourth for exotic pet ownership.

Exotic animals may be:

  • kept as pets in people’s homes;
  • bred and sold commercially; or
  • used for public display or entertainment at events.

Welfare concerns

Regardless of whether these animals are wild-caught or captive-bred, they retain their complex social, physiological, and behavioural needs that they would have in the wild.

This makes it impossible to fully meet their unique needs when kept captive as pets, which can lead to significant animal welfare issues and suffering.

Public health risks

The exotic pet trade also poses public health and safety risks.

Stressed animals are more susceptible to disease and to spreading disease to humans. In fact, 75% of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic (transmitted from non-human animals to humans).

Impact on wild animal populations

The exotic pet trade is also a major threat to wild populations, as a result of the poaching of wild animals to be sold into the pet trade.

The accidental or intentional release of exotic animals into the wild can also have a negative impact on native species and local ecosystems.

Exotic pet events

Exotic pet events, where animals are on display for public entertainment or are being sold, highlight many of the animal welfare, public health, and safety issues associated with the exotic pet trade. These wild animals are:

  • kept in cramped and unnatural containers;
  • transported to and from events; and
  • handled by adults and children in a noisy environment.

Will you help stop the suffering by signing up to receive action alerts? You will be contacted with key actions to help protect exotic animals.

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Urge Metro Vancouver to prioritize plant-based in updated food strategy

Update

The feedback period for the Metro Vancouver Regional Food Strategy is now closed. Thank you to all who spoke up for a plant-forward future!

  • The Metro Vancouver Regional Food Strategy aims to create a sustainable, resilient, and healthy food system across 21 municipalities, an electoral area, and a treaty First Nation.
  • Metro Vancouver is updating the Regional Food System Strategy for the first time since 2011 and is seeking public input.  
  • This is an important opportunity for Metro Vancouver residents and food system stakeholders to advocate for a shift toward more humane, healthy and sustainable plant-based food production and consumption across the region. 

TAKE ACTION: If you’re a Metro Vancouver resident, your input is needed to help advocate for an updated strategy that prioritizes less animal-based products and more plant-based foods. Share your feedback in the online survey before the deadline of December 31, 2024.

Fill out the online survey
Questions and key points

Call for plant-based policies to be included in Metro Vancouver’s Regional Food System Strategy

If you are a Metro Vancouver resident, fill out the short survey before the December 31st deadline. 

Scroll down to review the main questions asked and key points to consider in your submission. 

Express your thoughts in your own words as much as possible, as duplicate responses may not be accepted. 

Fill out the online survey

Survey questions and tips

Below are the main questions included in the Metro Vancouver survey. Click on each key point for tips and context to help answer the questions in your own words.

1. What changes have you seen in the regional food system over the last 10 – 15 years?

(Examples: changes to imports/exports, climate considerations, community changes, consumer habits, costs, etc.)

Growing public awareness and concern about the impact of animal-based foods…

…on the environment, health, and animal welfare, resulting in more people reducing their consumption of animal products.

  • A 2022 survey of Lower Mainland Residents found that 65% of respondents have reduced their consumption of animal products. 
  • A 2019 survey found that 25% of B.C. residents have tried a vegetarian diet, compared to the national average of 18%.
  • A 2018 survey found that almost 40% of British Columbians aged 35 and under follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, more than three times higher than the national average. 
Increased demand for plant-based foods/beverages…

…and more products being offered in stores, restaurants, etc.

  • A 2022 survey found that 65% of respondents in the Lower Mainland would eat more plant-based meals if there were more tasty options available when going out to eat. 
Scientific research and experts urging all levels of government to support food system change…

…toward plant-based eating patterns.

  • Growing awareness that the type of food plays a much larger role in a food’s overall carbon footprint than the distance it travels. Previously, much of the focus has been on prioritizing local food, but it’s also increasingly important that plant-based food be incorporated into food system strategies. 
  • Food system change, including shifting toward plant-based diets, is necessary to meet global climate targets and stay below 2 degrees of global warming. 
  • In the City of Vancouver, nearly 98% of the ecological footprint of food comes from the land and energy used for growing and producing it, particularly red meat and dairy products. 
Government acknowledgement and action around the need for food system change…

…toward more plant-based foods. 

  • The City of Vancouver passed a motion declaring the various social, economic, and environmental benefits of plant-based procurement. 
  • The District of North Vancouver passed a motion to ensure plant-based options are included and prioritized at municipal events, meetings, and other gatherings where the District purchases food. 
Public support for government action…

…including meat reduction efforts incorporated into government strategies. 

  • In a 2022 survey of Lower Mainland residents, 58% of respondents would support shifting government subsidies from animal-based food production to plant-based food production. 
  • 60% of survey respondents would support including animal production-reduction efforts into local, provincial and federal climate, health and animal welfare strategies. 

Are there any other food system-related changes or trends you’ve noticed in the Lower Mainland over the last decade? 

2. What do you think the role of Metro Vancouver should be in the implementation of a regional food system strategy?

(Examples: protecting agricultural lands, convening member jurisdiction on specific issues, providing local research and data, public education, etc.) 

As a regional organization, Metro Vancouver and member jurisdictions can prioritize humane, healthy and sustainable plant-based foods across the supply chain.

This could include:

  • Prioritizing and incentivizing plant-based food production and processing.
  • Supporting partnerships that enable businesses, public institutions and others to collaborate on plant-based procurement throughout the region through bulk ordering and supplier connections.
  • Public marketing, education, and promotion around increasing plant-based food consumption, in alignment with the updated Canada Food Guide, which recommends choosing plant-based proteins more often.
  • Supporting more plant-based options in food service, including through public institutions like schools, hospitals and community centers, as well as in catering, corporate programs, and cafeterias.
  • Supporting consumption of more plant-based foods across consumer, corporate, business and institutional levels. 

Are there other food system-related roles you think Metro Vancouver should be involved in? 

3. Is there any other feedback or other information you would like to share?

(Examples: suggestions, priorities, actions programs applied elsewhere, policy recommendations, challenges, resources, etc.) 

Metro Vancouver is uniquely positioned to support a much-needed food system shift towards plant-based food across multiple sectors.

This could include strategies and practices such as: 

  • Promoting and supporting strategies that prioritize plant-based food choices. For example, setting plant-based meals as the default option at events, meetings and municipal facilities.
  • Incentivizing plant-based food production, processing, purchasing and procurement. For example, through municipal food service contracts.
  • Encouraging member jurisdictions to set a target for reducing the volume of animal products purchased at municipal levels and follow the lead of other jurisdictions that have implemented meat reduction and/or plant-forward strategies. 

Are there other food-system related ideas or examples you would like to share? 

Fill out the online survey
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Notable Canadians urge Senate to pass bill to ban live horse export for slaughter: Join them

Photo: Canadian Horse Defence Coalition
  • In a letter to the Canadian Senate, 30+ Canadian celebrities, 20+ veterinary and animal welfare experts, and more than a dozen animal advocacy organizations have called for an end to the cruel export of live horses abroad for slaughter.
  • Bill C-355, which would ban the cruel practice, got through the House of Commons but has been stalled in the Senate since May.
  • Recent investigations and Japanese government data show the suffering far exceeds what the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) claims.  
  • While the Senate delays action, horses continue to suffer and die as shipments continue.
  • TAKE ACTION: Use the quick action tool below to send a message to Canadian Senators in your province, urging them to move forward with bill C-355 without further delay.

Join Canadian celebrities, experts and advocates in urging the Senate to stop the deadly delay.

Take the quick action to email Canadian Senators

Use the email template below to send a message to Canadian Senators in your province, calling on them to move forward with bill C-355 without further delay.

Tip: For added impact, edit the template message below to personalize your email.

Note: Click here for individual contact info of Canadian Senators.

Canadian icon and multi-platinum artist Jann Arden, along with a host of celebrity signatories including Bryan Adams, Chantal Kreviazuk, Elisha Cuthbert and Queen’s Brian May have penned a letter imploring Canada’s Senate to move forward with Bill C-355, the Prohibition of the Export of Horses by Air for Slaughter Act. The letter (which can be found here) also has strong support from the Canadian acting community, including stars in shows like Star Trek: Discovery, The Handmaid’s Tale, Workin’ Moms, and Heartland.

More than 20 veterinary and animal welfare experts, and more than a dozen animal advocacy organizations have also signed the letter urging senators to study and pass this lifesaving bill, which was passed by the House of Commons in May.

“Since 2006, tens of thousands of terrified horses have been crammed into shoddy wooden crates and flown 8,000 km to their demise, enduring turbulence, thirst and hunger, and abject fear,” said Jann Arden. “To say this practice is inhumane would be an understatement. Canadians want this to end.”

Bill C-355 was introduced last September by federal MP Tim Louis to end the abhorrent practice of shipping horses from Canada overseas to Japan for slaughter. The Bill is being delayed by a handful of Senators and has seen little progress in the Senate since May. The clock is ticking – if the bill is to become law it must pass before the next federal election.

Tens of thousands of Canadians have called and written to Senators, urging them to study and pass the bill. Yet as the legislation remains in limbo, these shipments continue to be sent overseas for slaughter, with horses enduring gruelling journeys. Most shipments appear to go over the legal limit of 28 hours without food, water, and rest.

Shipments continue despite the revelations uncovered through recent investigations by Animal Justice and Japan-based Life Investigation Agency. Based on Government of Japan records, between June 2023 and May 2024 alone, at least 21 horses exported for slaughter died during transport or in the hours and days shortly thereafter.

More than 50 others were injured or became seriously ill during this time. None of these injuries, illnesses, or deaths were reported to Canadian officials.

Bill C-355 reflects a promise made to Canadians during the last federal election, and enjoys broad public support across the political spectrum. With a pending election expected in 2025, Ms. Arden and the letter’s numerous other signatories are gravely concerned about the Senate’s delay in studying and ultimately passing this crucial legislation.

Back to quick action

Learn more

  • Check out Canadian singer-songwriter Jann Arden’s #HorseShit campaign, which aims to end the practice of live horse export for slaughter. 
  • Get an in-depth look at the horse export and slaughter industry, thanks to the work of the Canadian Horse Defence Coalition (CHDC).
  • Read or listen to and share this episode of The Informed Animal Ally, the VHS’s monthly podcast, featuring guest speaker Sinikka Crosland of the CHDC. 
  • Read and share the op-ed by the VHS and Animal Justice, published in the Daily Hive, to raise awareness about this inhumane industry.

Cover photo: Canadian Horse Defence Coalition

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Stop delaying ban on cruel live horse exports for slaughter

Horses in a crate waiting to be shipped for slaughter
Photo: Canadian Horse Defence Coalition
  • It has been three years since the federal government promised to ban the shipping of gentle draft horses overseas for slaughter, an industry that causes unimaginable fear and suffering to these sensitive animals.
  • Bill C-355, which would ban the cruel practice, got through the House of Commons but has been stalled in the Senate since May.
  • Recent investigations and Japanese government data show the suffering far exceeds what the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) claims.  
  • While the Senate delays action, horses continue to suffer and die as shipments continue.

Join animal protection organizations across Canada in urging the Senate to stop the deadly delay.

Take the quick action to email Canadian Senators

Use the email template below to send a message to Canadian Senators in your province, calling on them to move forward with bill C-355 without further delay.

Tip: For added impact, edit the template message below to personalize your email.

Note: Click here for individual contact info of Canadian Senators.

Most Canadians would be surprised to learn that Canada is one of the top exporters of live horses for slaughter. Every year, approximately 3,000-5,000 live draft horses are loaded onto planes, packed tightly with 3-4 horses per crate, and flown on lengthy journeys abroad where they will be slaughtered for meat.

Horses’ journeys to slaughter are long, dangerous and stressful

  • Horses can legally be transported for up to 28 hours without access to food, water or rest, but a recent exposé finds most journeys actually exceed this time limit.
  • As sensitive prey animals with strong fight or flight instincts, horses suffer greatly on long, loud, crowded trips.
  • Deaths and injuries are commonplace, with a recent exposé showing that 21 horses died in 13 months, between May 2023-June 2024. A Canadian Food Inspection Agency representative had previously reported they were only aware of five deaths since 2013.
  • Causes of death included dehydration, serious injuries incurred during flights, and painful miscarriages.

Canadians are calling for change

Recent polling shows just 22% of Canadians support the live horse export industry continuing. 

The industry has long been opposed by organizations across Canada, including the Canadian Horse Defence Coalition and prominent animal advocates like singer-songwriter Jann Arden.

A federal parliamentary e-petition garnered more than 77,000 public signatures in support of a ban, making it one of the most popular animal-related federal petitions on record.  

Horses continue to suffer due to delay of bill C-355

In December 2021, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau directed the Minister of Agriculture, Marie-Claude Bibeau, to ban the live export of horses for slaughter. Three years later, horses continue to be shipped to their death as a result of delay in passing Bill C-355, which would end the practice of exporting live horses for slaughter.  

Can you help protect horses from suffering through long journeys to slaughter?

Back to quick action

Learn more

  • Check out Canadian singer-songwriter Jann Arden’s #HorseShit campaign, which aims to end the practice of live horse export for slaughter. 
  • Get an in-depth look at the horse export and slaughter industry, thanks to the work of the Canadian Horse Defence Coalition (CHDC).
  • Read or listen to and share this episode of The Informed Animal Ally, the VHS’s monthly podcast, featuring guest speaker Sinikka Crosland of the CHDC. 
  • Read and share the op-ed by the VHS and Animal Justice, published in the Daily Hive, to raise awareness about this inhumane industry.

Cover photo: Canadian Horse Defence Coalition

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News/Blog

Hastings racing season bookended by horse deaths

Another horse has died after being seriously injured during the final weekend of the racing season at Hastings Racecourse. Her tragic loss was the fourth fatality of this year’s racing season, with the first occurring less than a month after the season began.

Take action

There were four horse deaths at Hastings in 2024:

  • On May 25, a 3-year-old horse named Lizzie’s Rayne sustained a complete fracture of her left hind leg and was euthanized, less than one month into the racing season.
  • On August 9, a 2-year-old horse named Kiki’s Song of Life sustained a compound fracture in his left front leg during a timed workout and was subsequently euthanized.
  • On September 6, a 4-year-old horse named Lucky Cowboy suffered a compound fracture to his front leg during a race and was euthanized.
  • On October 12, a 2-year-old horse named Anstruther suffered a compound fracture to her right hind leg and was euthanized. Her death occurred during the final weekend of the racing season at Hastings.

Last year, eleven horses died at B.C.’s two racecourses – eight at Hastings and three at Fraser Downs.  

The pattern of regular deaths is not the only threat to horses’ well-being in the racing industry. Horses also suffer stress and pain as a result of aversive training and the use of painful tools like whips and bits to tightly control their movements in these risky, fast-paced events.

The VHS continues to encourage the public to not attend horse races and to take the pledge to reflect their concern for horses.  

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In the news
2023 incidents
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News/Blog

Rodeo season wraps up with new actions, growing public opposition

A bull is prodded in a closed chute as he backed up into a gate.
Jordan Rivers We Animals Media

Photo: Jordan Rivers \We Animals Media

This summer, the VHS and supporters were hard at work advocating to end the suffering of animals in rodeos.

Calgary Stampede

This year’s Calgary Stampede rodeo and chuckwagon races were the deadliest of the past five years, resulting in the deaths of four animals: three horses used in chuckwagon racing and a cow used in steer wrestling.

Media coverage of tragic incidents ensures public transparency

The VHS team closely monitored events to ensure these tragic incidents were tracked and shared with media. Stampede organizers only shared information about animal deaths after the VHS’s team and media contacts made inquiries.

The VHS’s Calgary Stampede campaign ran throughout the summer, reaching millions of people through online messaging, billboards across Calgary, and 43 media broadcasts and articles including on Global News, CTV News, CityNews Calgary, and the CBC.

Sharp increase in opposition to rodeo events in Calgary and across Canada

Survey results have since shown a significant increase in public opposition to inhumane rodeo and chuckwagon races and to government funding of these events.

With the shift in public opinion comes an important opportunity for meaningful change. Decision-makers have previously pushed back on calls to end the rodeo and chuckwagon races at the Calgary Stampede, citing public support. The new survey results show that support is rapidly dwindling, marking a turning point for the increasingly controversial animal events.

Calling for action from Calgary City Council

The VHS has delivered a report to Calgary City Council outlining welfare concerns, growing public opposition to rodeo events and chuckwagon races, and a recommendation that the City support removing inhumane events from the Stampede program.

Take action on the Calgary Stampede rodeo

B.C. rodeo season

Here in B.C., the rodeo season once again saw many concerning incidents of animal suffering. The VHS monitored these events, where video footage revealed animals being dragged around the arena by a rope, thrashing in chutes and becoming trapped in unnatural positions, and being agitated through stressful practices like ear pulling.

The VHS submits cruelty reports for inhumane treatment and apparent rule violations

Animal welfare concerns raised at Coombs rodeo

Videos from the 2024 Bulls Broncs & Barrels in Coombs, British Columbia show a number of serious welfare concerns, including: – Improper use of electric prods – A horse falling and being kicked in the head – Rough handling and deliberate agitation of animals – Visible signs of stress Footage: Jordan Rivers We Animals Media

In one particularly concerning clip from a rodeo in Clinton, a stressed bull resists handlers’ attempts to move him in the pens next to the arena. The clip goes on to show handlers kicking the bull, twisting his tail and using an electric prod on the animal repeatedly, including prodding the animal on the anus.

The VHS submitted an animal cruelty report in response to the incident, which appears to violate rules around electric prod use. The VHS also submitted a cruelty report regarding harsh handling of horses and inhumane use of electric prods at a rodeo in Coombs this August.

B.C. government continues to fund rodeo events

The B.C. government continues to fund the suffering of animals in rodeo, with more than $680,000 in taxpayer dollars awarded to events that include rodeos this year alone. The VHS is calling for an end to provincial funding of rodeo events and for legal protections to prevent animal suffering in rodeo. You can send a pre-written, editable email to provincial decision-makers using the quick action tool.

Take action on B.C. rodeos
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News/Blog

Call for transparent labelling for ALL egg products

A crowded battery cage full of brown laying hens

Update

The feedback period for transparent labelling on egg products is now closed. Thank you to all who spoke up for transparency for egg-laying hens!

  • The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is looking for public feedback on proposed guidelines for how plant-based egg products can be labelled. 
  • While the intention is to prevent false or misleading advertising of plant-based products, research shows that consumers find labelling of eggs from chickens confusing.
  • TAKE ACTION: Your input is needed to help advocate for fair and transparent labelling standards among all egg products in Canada. Share your feedback in a quick email before the consultation deadline of October 28th. 
Email your feedback
Key points

Push for fair and transparent labelling of animal-based egg products 

Send a short email before the October 28th consultation deadline. Scroll down to review a few key points to consider in your submission. 

Use your own words as much as possible (do not copy and paste) as duplicate responses may not be considered. 

Send an email (2 min)

Key points to consider in your email

Which eggs would consumers consider the most “humane”? Source: Save-On Foods.

Chicken egg product labelling is confusing and misleading  

A 2024 survey prepared by Bryant Research found that consumers are confused and misled by chicken egg labels and packaging.

Terms such as free-range, free-run, cage-free and enriched colony housing have no legal definitions. These terms, along with marketing tactics such as labels with images of happy hens frolicking in the grass, are misleading when compared to the on-farm conditions and methods of production.  

Tip: Share your own experience with chicken egg labelling. Have you found it confusing to understand the welfare information and method of production (caged vs. cage-free eggs) of eggs at your grocery store?  

Egg product labelling should include welfare information and method of production 

Research shows that a majority of Canadian consumers think about animal welfare when deciding what eggs to purchase. The majority are willing to spend more when they believe the hens’ welfare is higher.  

Consumers and advocates are increasingly calling for in-store egg labelling that includes animal welfare and method of production (e.g. caged vs. cage-free) information.  

Fairness in labelling for ALL egg products 

Guidelines for plant-based egg labelling must be fair and not put plant-based products at a disadvantage to animal-based products. Efforts to prevent misleading advertising and improve transparency must apply to ALL egg products.  

Send an email (2 min)

10 minute survey

Have more time? You can learn more about the proposed guidance on plant-based egg labelling and submit your feedback via the online feedback questionnaire, which includes more questions.  

Update: The online questionnaire is now closed. Thank you to all who participated.

Review proposed guidance
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News/Blog

Report urges Calgary city council to support a rodeo and chuckwagon-free Stampede 

Calf roping event at The Calgary Stampede. Jo-Anne McArthur \ We Animals Media.

Photos: Jo-Anne McArthur \ We Animals Media

A NEW report from the Vancouver Humane Society highlights:

  • This year’s deadly Calgary Stampede rodeo and chuckwagon races, with four animal fatalities and footage of inhumane handling of animals;
  • Groundbreaking polling that reflects a significant increase in public opposition to rodeo events and government funding;
  • 9600+ signatures on the #SayNoToRodeo pledge, calling for an end to inhumane rodeo events and the deadly chuckwagon races at the Calgary Stampede;

The report recommends that Calgary city council seek the removal of rodeo and chuckwagon events from Stampede program. 

TAKE ACTION: Sign and share the petition and send a message to Calgary city council in support of the VHS’s report and recommendations. 

Sign & share the #SayNoToRodeo pledge
Contact Calgary city council
Read the report

Send a message to Calgary City Council

Send a message to Calgary’s Mayor & Council in support of the VHS’s new report and recommendations. The report recommends: 

  • Ending inhumane animal events at the Stampede; 
  • Discussing the VHS report at an upcoming public council meeting. 

Below are some key points you may wish to consider in your message. Please use your own words and remain respectful in your message. 

Why you’re writing: Note the VHS’s new report and that you’re writing in support of it.  

What concerns you the most: Consider what happened at this year’s Stampede (four animal deaths); the event’s track record of near-annual deaths; the stress and suffering the animals experience during the events. 

Your request: That city council work with Stampede organizers to remove rodeo events and chuckwagon races and instead prioritize events that don’t cause animal harm.  

For people outside Calgary:

Email Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek

For Calgary residents:

Use the online contact form
Email the Manager, Office of the Councillors

The Vancouver Humane Society’s Stampede report

In a new report sent to Calgary city council, the VHS outlines concerns and recommendations following this year’s deadly Stampede rodeo and chuckwagon events. Below are the key points and recommendations in the report: 

The use of animals in rodeo events presents a significant risk of injury and death, as evidenced by the near-annual animal fatalities at the Calgary Stampede rodeo and chuckwagon races.

  • The 2024 Calgary Stampede rodeo and chuckwagon races were the deadliest since 2019, with four animal fatalities during this year’s 10-day event.
  • Three horses sustained serious and irrecoverable injuries during the chuckwagon races and one steer’s neck was disturbingly snapped during a wrestling event. All four animals were euthanized.
  • Footage from the Calgary Stampede rodeo captures animals being roughly handled and displaying visible signs of stress, including thrashing in the chutes, resisting handlers, open mouth and extended tongue, and exhibiting eye white response.
  • 2024 Research Co. public polling shows that majority of Calgarians oppose calf roping, steer wrestling, bronc riding, and chuckwagon racing.
  • Public polling also shows that 67% of Calgarians oppose government funding of rodeo events.
  • 2022 Research Co. polling of Calgarians also found that removal of the rodeo and chuckwagon events would have virtually no impact on attendance rates and would bring a new crowd to the Calgary Stampede.

Therefore, the VHS recommends that Calgary city council seek the removal of the rodeo and chuckwagon events from the annual Calgary Stampede program.

VHS Report-Evidence for a Calgary Stampede Without Rodeo and Chuckwagon EventsDownload