Whereas mobile live animal programs where animals are transported to be displayed to, handled by or offered for sale to the public can create distress for animals and introduce risks of zoonotic disease transmission and injury for people and other animals; And whereas wild and exotic animals are not domesticated and suffer physically and psychologically when kept, bred, displayed and sold in captivity: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM ask the Province of British Columbia to regulate mobile live animal programs to address animal welfare concerns and public health and safety risks; And be it further resolved UBCM ask the Province of British Columbia to update the Controlled Alien Species Regulation to equally prioritize animal welfare considerations alongside public safety, and prohibit the import of all exotic species.
Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship In British Columbia, wildlife is managed under the Wildlife Act and its associated regulations. Exotic species that pose risks to public safety, property, wildlife or habitat are designated as Controlled Alien Species CAS under the Wildlife Acts Controlled Alien Species Regulation CASR. The CASR is robust, designating more than 1,200 species as CAS. Species prioritized for prohibition are those most likely to pose threats to people, property, wildlife and wildlife habitat. Ministry staff regularly review the regulation and engage with stakeholders to determine if additional species should be prohibited to address emerging issues or potential risks posed by unregulated species of concern. For example, the Province is currently proposing an amendment to the CASR that would ban the breeding, sale, and future ownership of all non-native and non-domestic cat species. If approved, the changes are intended to keep ecosystems, native wildlife, people and domestic pets safe, while also ensuring the well-being of the exotic cats. Under the CASR, a permit is required to transport, possess and display live wildlife in BC. Permit applicants must submit a Public Safety Animal Welfare Plan, which is reviewed by the Provincial Wildlife Veterinarian, wildlife branch staff, and the BC SPCA. Issued permits include terms and conditions respecting animal housing, protection, care, security and personal contact with the public. While animal welfare is considered, the primary purpose of the CASR is to mitigate risks to people, property, and wildlife.