Programs and Projects

Companion animals, like dogs, cats and more play an important role in the lives of Canadians, and we are dedicated to ensuring that our work positively supports their welfare.

From research, public policy and education to support of member Humane Societies and SPCA’s working on the frontlines, we focus our efforts on cruelty prevention, collaboration, training and providing effective, evidence-driven solutions.

Humane Canada, as the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, was formed in 1957 out of concern for the welfare of animals being slaughtered for food in Canada. At that time, there were no regulations addressing the humane slaughter of animals. Humane Canada took on the issue and was influential in the introduction of the federal Humane Slaughter of Food Animals Act in 1959.

We continue to play a crucial role in farmed animal welfare in Canada. As a founding member of the National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC), Humane Canada advocates for continual improvements to the standards for farmed animal care that are included in Canada’s codes of practice. Humane Canada also campaigns for improvements to various policies and regulations to improve the treatment of farmed animals at the provincial and federal level. We also encourage the public to support campaigns and petitions that demonstrate societies' support for improvements.

Humane Canada, also known as the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, was formed in 1957 out of concern for the welfare of animals being slaughtered for food in Canada. At that time, there were no regulations addressing the humane slaughter of animals. Humane Canada took on the issue and was influential in the introduction of the federal Humane Slaughter of Food Animals Act in 1959.

We continue to play a crucial role in farmed animal welfare in Canada. As a founding member of the National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC), Humane Canada advocates for continual improvements to the standards for farmed animal care that are included in Canada’s codes of practice.

Humane Canada also campaigns for improvements to various policies and regulations to improve the treatment of farmed animals at the provincial and federal level.

Humane Canada works to encourage and educate a welfare-conscious public that is supportive of the humane movement and understands what actions can be taken to contribute to the creation and maintenance of a humane country. Through education and advocacy, we ignite the spark of empathy in the hearts of Canadians, empowering them to be agents of change in building a more humane society.

Our mission, fuelled by expertise and evidence, is to transform perspectives on animal welfare, inspiring individuals to take meaningful actions that make a lasting difference. Together, we can weave compassion into the fabric of our nation, crafting a future where the humane treatment of all animals is not just an ideal, but a lived reality.

Championing Change: Humane Canada’s Impact on Animal Protection Legislation

Humane Canada drives change and inclusions to federal legislation to improve animal protection and reduce animal suffering. We provide a respected voice and an evidence-based approach to press for a legal framework that ensures animals are protected within policy and the law.

Discover the trailblazing legislation that Humane Canada has championed and is working on now to protect animals and foster a more compassionate society.

Humane Canada has been instrumental in advocating for criminal justice reform related to animal welfare. Our work focuses on ensuring animals are protected by the law and that those who mistreat animals are held accountable. We strive to strengthen animal protection legislation, enhance enforcement of animal cruelty laws, and promote education and training for law enforcement and judicial officials.

Humane Canada's efforts aim to create a safer and more compassionate society for all animals inspiring the public to recognize the importance of treating animals with respect and dignity.

A strong membership and sector is one that is well funded, aligned toward a common goal and committed to professional development and standards.

At Humane Canada, we are dedicated to nurturing our sector, and empowering our members through development, growth, and connectivity. By fostering collaboration, we aim to make a significant impact on federal policy, ensuring a united front for progress.

Our mission is to elevate animal welfare to new heights, adopting a One Health/One Welfare approach that harmonizes human, animal, and environmental well-being. We engage with the public, government, and our sector with a strategic blend of research, education, and advocacy, tailored to the unique needs of humane societies, SPCA’s, governmental bodies, and the community at large. By focusing our efforts, Humane Canada is committed to being a catalyst for change, promoting a country where animal welfare is a fundamental part of our collective well-being.