The short answer
Yukon's Animal Protection and Control Act came into force on April 5, 2024, replacing the Dog Act, the Animal Protection Act and the Pounds Act. It sets standards of care and control for owners, bans cosmetic surgeries such as ear cropping and debarking, and requires animal businesses to hold a permit.
Key changes
- One modern law replaces three older ones
- Owners must provide care and keep control of their animals
- Cosmetic surgeries such as ear cropping and debarking are banned
- Pet stores, boarding facilities and rescues need a $50 permit and can be inspected (permit requirements from April 5, 2025)
- Tickets of $100–$500, with serious offences going to court
What it means for buyers
Ask any Yukon business that houses or sells animals for its permit. Dogs arriving from other provinces must also meet the new standards once they're in Yukon.
Frequently asked questions
When did Yukon's new animal law take effect?
April 5, 2024, with permit requirements for animal businesses from April 5, 2025.
Sources
- Learn about the Animal Protection and Control Act (Yukon.ca)
- Act and regulations come into effect (Yukon.ca)
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