This is a key recommendation of the Sled Dog Task Force report.

The requirement of an annual inspection will be added to tenures issued under the provincial Land Act for future sled dog owners and operators. Current operators must include the commitment to have an annual inspection of their sled dogs in their business management plans. The new provision requiring an annual inspection will be included in their tenures when they come up for renewal. A licensed veterinarian or constable from the BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is required to conduct these annual inspections.

Sled dog operators may operate on Crown land through tenures issued under the provincial Land Act. The updated policy is available online at: http://www.agf.gov.bc.ca/clad/Documents/LPSB/Policies/adventure_tourism.pdf

On April 5, 2011, Premier Christy Clark announced the Province is acting on all 10 of the Sled Dog Task Force report's recommendations. Earlier this year, B.C. amended legislation to give this province the toughest animal cruelty laws in Canada with higher penalties and greater accountability.

Contact:

David Crebo
Communications Director
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 812-5747