Two Montreal boroughs ditch private pound

Having dealt with them....this is good news!!!!


By CBC News, cbc.ca, Updated: May 4, 2011 2:16 PM
Two Montreal boroughs ditch private pound


Two boroughs have dropped the services of Berger Blanc, which was the subject of a Radio-Canada investigation on the inhumane treatment of animals in April.
Two Montreal boroughs are terminating their contracts with the Berger Blanc private pound following allegations of animals being mistreated.

An investigation by Radio-Canada's Enquête program broadcast in April showed footage of questionable euthanasia practices.

At a borough meeting last night, Cote-des-Neiges/Notre-Dame-de-Grâce officials voted to end its contract immediately, despite being obligated to give 30 days notice to the pound.

Mayor Michael Applebaum said the borough will pay Berger Blanc for the 30 days, but will not use its services.

"It's not a question of cost, it's a question of the welfare of our animals," Applebaum said when asked about the $10,000 the borough will lose.

The SPCA will take over services for the borough immediately.

Meanwhile, the Plateau Mont-Royal borough has also voted not to renew its contract with Berger Blanc, which runs out next month.

Councillor Piper Huggins told CBC News she has been receiving complaints from citizens for the past year.

The Enquête investigation showed animals being given given lethal injections without being sedated first, in violation of North American veterinarian standards.

Employees trained at the pound were in charge of administering needles, rather than a veterinarian.

Eight boroughs still use pound

There are eight other boroughs across the city that use the private pound's services, which is hired by the individual boroughs instead of the central city administration.

Huggins said she will present a motion at the next city council meeting asking for a committee to be created to oversee animal management.

The city of Montreal is expected to make an announcement about the pound soon.

Berger Blanc refused to comment Tuesday.

The private pound handles more than 30,000 animals a year, which is about half of Montreal's abandoned pet population.

yipee, there is a thread started somewhere about the dealings at berger blanc and the newspapers accounts etc. only two posters seemed to have commented. but it sure interests me.


http://www.pets.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=76587&highlight=berger+blanc

It interests me very much as well.
I have a lot of experience w/montreal's spca but almost none with berger blanc.

I can say that a few years ago I lived very close to berger blanc and went in and offered to be a volunteer dogwalker. They told me they had no such program. I told them I didn't care that there was no program and that it would be my pleasure to regularly walk their dogs and that I have experience. They said no....and that was that. It left a very sour taste in my mouth.

But What is really strange to me are the boroughs that are/were affiliated with berger blanc.

Both NDG and CDN are like 1-4 kilometers from the SPCA. The berger blanc is close to the tip of the Island and is over 20 KM farther. How does that make sense? If there are 2 city pounds shouldn't they service the boroughs CLOSEST to them?

What am I missing?

kick backs?

What am I missing?

Costs or corruption. BB may have offered cheaper services or there was a buddy-buddy system between BB and the Boroughs.

That's an odd answer Melinda but I don't know much about it.

If that IS the case then the dealmakers in NDG and CDN should be fired.

OBVIOUSLY if my dog was lost I would expect that the pound that is 2 kms from my house should get the call - NOT the pound that's 20 kms away and has no subway system close by....that's just dumb and a disservice to both pets and pet owners.

the more dogs/cats pts, supposedly the more they were paid. so lets make a deal, you "burough" support me and I'll slip you XX amount? I'm guessing here...and going by what I've heard from different people around our spca

Well that needs to stop....
Your kid wants to go to a close school, a sick parent wants to go to a close hospital...... and pets and pet owners want the closest pound.

On any given day the BB is an extra 45 min farther by car from NDG and CDN residents....and has no subway that's really close. The SPCA is right friggen there with a subway stop that's 1-2 walking minutes from the building :wall:

but that isn't the way the world works marko....would be nice though wouldn't it? Hopefully berger blanc will be put out of business.

hypothetically, lets say pound bids on each borough contract, right?....all you need is one city/inside worker to "see" the bids and viola, anyone can bid a dollar lower, it happens in construction all the time...so why not pounds?

Damn I just left NDG for Le-Sud-Ouest/Verdun area who still uses BB. It doesn't matter that my dog is tagged and microchipped they would still kill him if he ended up in their hands. Luckily being a small cute little doxie chances are good a citizen would pick him up and take him home if he ever went missing.

but Cell, what about the dogs that aren't "little and cute"......do large black dogs deserve to die the way they do at BB? anyways doesn't Le-Sud-Ouest/Verdun use the mspca? or has that changed in the last couple of years?

hypothetically, lets say pound bids on each borough contract, right?....all you need is one city/inside worker to "see" the bids and viola, anyone can bid a dollar lower, it happens in construction all the time...so why not pounds?

It does not work that way Melinda. When I bidded, we had a time, a place and all bids were brought in envelopes which were sealed. They would inspect the envelope and then stamp it. You would walk into a board room with your envelope with other contractors and the envelopes were only then opened by the municipality representative. Everyone is there to witness the opening of the bids. The bids were then shared. Not all municipalities took the lowest bids.
They did not advise who was getting the contracts immediately. They would deliberate and let you know at a later date.


Now Marko....what about a contract that BB currently has that is far from the SPCA? Do you still believe that they should stick with BB rather than going for the SPCA which advocates animal welfare? If distance is your issue, then would it be safe to say that you want BB to still hold these contracts because they are closer? Sorry, but I disagree with contracting to only those that are close to the municipality that they serve. I hope not all municipalities share your view. I am hoping that BB loses ALL their contracts regardless of which municipality they serve. This is the only way that this ugly pound can be closed down and unserviceable for good.

It does not work that way Melinda. When I bidded, we had a time, a place and all bids were brought in envelopes which were sealed. They would inspect the envelope and then stamp it. You would walk into a board room with your envelope with other contractors and the envelopes were only then opened by the municipality representative. Everyone is there to witness the opening of the bids. The bids were then shared. Not all municipalities took the lowest bids.
They did not advise who was getting the contracts immediately. They would deliberate and let you know at a later date.

Now Marko....what about a contract that BB currently has that is far from the SPCA? Do you still believe that they should stick with BB rather than going for the SPCA which advocates animal welfare? If distance is your issue, then would it be safe to say that you want BB to still hold these contracts because they are closer? Sorry, but I disagree with contracting to only those that are close to the municipality that they serve. I hope not all municipalities share your view. I am hoping that BB loses ALL their contracts regardless of which municipality they serve. This is the only way that this ugly pound can be closed down and unserviceable for good.

so all the bids were in secret.....and none were made public....and deliberated to be announced at a later date.....hmmmm makes a body think...yep, it does....:shrug:

so all the bids were in secret.....and none were made public....and deliberated to be announced at a later date.....hmmmm makes a body think...yep, it does....:shrug:

It does, but all those in the room are aware of the bids. We were not allowed to have a pen and paper to jot down the bids for reference..that is where you need to have super sonic memory so that you can report back.

The public does not care about the bids themselves...but I hope they care as to who has the contract.

oh I know the public doesn't care about the bids, but other bidders do, I'm a very untrusting person when it comes to bids...I know how it works, I worked in it for years....

oh I know the public doesn't care about the bids, but other bidders do, I'm a very untrusting person when it comes to bids...I know how it works, I worked in it for years....

I hear you. But when I put in a bid, it was done well. There were no other papers, books nor pens on the table. All contractors were there with only their envelopes. One by one, the envelope went to the person looking over the bids. They were then opened one by one. The name of the contractor was announced as well as their bid.

oh sorry, I thought you said they were announced at a later date.

oh sorry, I thought you said they were announced at a later date.

No - who won the contract was announced at a later date. Bids were known immediately. Maybe I did not express that clearly.

gotcha!

Opposition wants public animal pound. Montreal under fire for using private company for animal population control
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/story/2011/05/06/montreal-animal-pound-berger-blanc.html

Brigitte Bardot sends a letter to Major Tremblay
http://fr.canoe.ca/infos/quebeccanada/archives/2011/05/20110506-095728.html

The former French actress Brigitte Bardot, who fiercely defends animal rights, has sent an open letter to Montreal Mayor Gerald Tremblay on Friday to ask him to terminate the contracts with The Berger Blanc.

In a letter, Brigitte Bardot reprehends “the horror in the eyes of dogs who wait” their turn “, surrounded by corpses.”

Bardot states that the images that were distributed by Radio-Canada should “haunt” Mr. Tremblay and he should “make the decision to radically alter [his] approach to the management of animals” in Montreal.

The former actress also condems the conduct of the employee of Berger Blanc, shown in the report.

The employee should, according to Ms. Bardot, “to be tried for such acts of cruelty, sadism akin to Nazism.”

Brigitte Bardot, asks the mayor of Montreal to “take the necessary measures so that the suffering endured by hundreds of animals over days can be recognized and be stoped,” including by terminating contracts with “this horrible company .

It also requires putting in place alternative measures to euthanasia as “sterilization, making the adoption.”

Ms. Bardot ends her letter: “Despite the slaughter of seals, animal genocide and shame of humanity, Quebec is a civilized country, changed … so why he is behaving like a barbarian country, primary to animals?”

......


Now Marko....what about a contract that BB currently has that is far from the SPCA? Do you still believe that they should stick with BB rather than going for the SPCA which advocates animal welfare? If distance is your issue, then would it be safe to say that you want BB to still hold these contracts because they are closer? Sorry, but I disagree with contracting to only those that are close to the municipality that they serve. I hope not all municipalities share your view. I am hoping that BB loses ALL their contracts regardless of which municipality they serve. This is the only way that this ugly pound can be closed down and unserviceable for good.

I posted about my only experience w/bb in this thread. This is obviously a complex issue and i do not have all the facts - that's for sure. I have deliberately not read too much about this situation because these things always bother me. (I realize that's a lousy excuse).

Obviously we want quality pounds, schools and hospitals in our society and if 1 organization is providing sub-standard service....then yes it should be sacked and not serve people that live close by or anyone actually.

The distance factor IS VERY IMPORTANT though and imo shows a lack of concern for animals and pet owners. Not sure what else to say....

I honestly do not understand how this is still going on..... and why no one else is putting in any bids for the contract??? http://www.montrealmirror.com/wp/2011/03/24/cover-pet-heaven’s-waiting-room/
Pet heaven’s waiting room
Critics say the Berger Blanc pound is cruel and kill-happy, but its director says the allegations are overblown. Contract negotiations with the Plateau may change the way it does business
by ELISABETH FAURE
March 24, 2011

FINAL DESTINATION? Berger Blanc
Photo by RACHEL GRANOFSKY
What is the truth about the Berger Blanc? That’s the question being raised by concerned pet-owners across the island. A movement online and on the ground against the city’s for-profit animal pound is growing.

“The Truth About the Berger Blanc” Facebook page created by the pound’s critics has over 700 people Liking it. The page’s creators accuse the pound of lousy customer service and various nefarious activities. And an online petition opposing the pound’s activities currently has over 2,700 signatures (petitions24.net/petition_berger_blanc).

Critics charge that the pound isn’t helpful to owners who’ve lost their pets, with wild and unsubstantiated rumours accusing the pound of everything from selling animals to labs to gassing them to death en masse.

“There are many, many, many rumours,” acknowledges Pierre Couture, Berger’s owner and executive director. “It would be impossible for us to keep all our contracts if we did those things.”

Open since 1983, the Berger Blanc services over 30 boroughs and municipalities in Greater Montreal from its location at 9825 Henri-Bourassa, two blocks east of Rivière des Prairies Boulevard. It receives an estimated 18,000 stray, lost or abandoned pets a year. Animals—either pets or captured strays—are usually dropped off, but the pound does have a van that can come and collect strays or pets with a 24-hour notice. The pound’s capacity is about 100 cats and 55 dogs. Unlike non-profit shelters like the SPCA, the Berger is a business, with*out an animal-welfare mandate.

PLATEAU PROTEST

The Plateau borough is a key battleground for Berger opponents. At a Dec. 6 borough council meeting, resident Anjali Choksi deposited a printed version of the petition and claimed the pound doesn’t wait the mandatory 72 hours required by the borough contract before euthanizing animals. “We have multiple testimonies saying there are many animals who enter and are euthanized one or two hours later,” said Choksi.

Émilie Sauvé also spoke at the Dec. 6 meeting. She said she had to make a four-hour round trip to the Berger every three days to search for her lost cat. Sauvé (whose pet returned home on its own) made serious allegations against the BB, claiming, “I saw cats there dying in their cages.” Both Choksi’s and Sauvé’s allegations can be seen online at webtv.coop.

Borough mayor Luc Ferrandez appeared to take the concerns seriously. Ferrandez formed a citizen’s advisory committee on the spot, mandating them to examine animal control in the bor*ough.

The most common complaints against the BB? It doesn’t check for microchips; its primitive website doesn’t display many photos (only a tiny fraction of cats and a total of two dogs); and it insists pet owners travel to the pound to ID their pet, which, given its location in the city’s northeast, is especially hard if you don’t have a car. Critics also complain the pound doesn’t spay or neuter animals before adoption.

Couture defends his pound’s intake procedure. “We always check for microchips before euthanizing an animal,” he says. As for forcing owners to come to the pound in person, Couture acknowl*edges the pound isn’t centrally located, but argues, “It’s the responsibility of the person who lost their pet to come down.” He says the website is under construction and will re-launch by the end of April.

VISITING THE CONDEMNED

In order to find out what it’s like to deal with the Berger Blanc firsthand, I called the pound two weeks ago claiming to have lost a black-and-white, microchipped cat in NDG. Staff said they couldn’t check to see if any animal recently brought in matched that description, because, “They all look the same.” Berger staff said they don’t check for microchips. I was told to travel to the Berger every three days to check for the cat.

While Couture says the facility is clean, my visit to the pound was greeted with a strong smell of urine and feces, noticeable from the moment I entered. In the main room, rows of cats for adop*tion sit in stacked cages. A room on the left houses more rows of lost cats awaiting owner pick-up. The metal cages contain no bedding, and many cats sleep in their own litter boxes for warmth. One cat’s litter box was completely overturned, and dirty litter was scattered across its cage. Dogs are kept in a narrow, L-shaped room. The cages have central drainage holes. Urine flows down the hole and into an uncovered metal bowl. At the time of the my visit, most of the bowls were full.

Berger’s refusal to check animals based on telephone descriptions has led to a legal ruling against the pound. In 2010, a woman won a small-claims court ruling after the pound euthanized her dog, Zazi, despite her multiple telephone calls describing the animal. Couture admits the pound was in the wrong, but says it was an isolated incident in 25 years of business. “It is only one case, and there will be no more.”

CHIPPED AND CHOPPED


SCAN, STERILIZE, SAVE: Caroline Ross
Photo by RACHEL GRANOFSKY
Other animal welfare groups in Montreal also have reservations about Berger Blanc’s alleged practices. Caroline Ross, the founder of Eleven Eleven Animal Rescue, a non-profit organiza*tion specializing in finding homes for difficult-to-adopt animals, says, “My biggest issue with the Berger Blanc is that they are doing nothing when it comes to animal control. They don’t steril*ize their animals, and their adoption fees are higher than most private shelters, who offer animals who are microchipped, neutered and fully vaccinated.”

Ross visited the pound and says she was so “heartbroken” at what she found that she adopted three dogs. She claims that the staff were unhelpful when asked about the animals’ tempera*ment.

Alanna Devine, the SPCA’s director of animal welfare, says, “We scan every animal brought in for microchips.” At the SPCA, animals must be spayed or neutered as well as microchipped and vaccinated before adoption—an essential step to prevent overpopulation not practised by Berger Blanc. “I don’t believe it’s our job to do that,” responds Couture.

Contradicting what some critics claim, Couture says the only time the pound will euthanize an animal upon arrival is if the pet’s owner asks them to—legally, Berger can’t refuse. Oth*erwise, Couture says animals are kept on-premises for three to five days, depending on the contract the Berger has with the area the animal comes from.

Unclaimed animals are evaluated for adoption. Sick animals, dogs aged seven and older and cats aged three and older don’t make the cut. If you surrender your older pet to the pound, it’s automatic euthanasia. “No one wants a seven-year-old dog,” a BB staff member told the Mirror.

Animals are individually euthanized via injection. “We don’t have a gas chamber, we never will,” Couture says.

Another rumour concerns a secret room full of cats that’s off-limits to visitors. Asked about this, Couture bursts into laughter. “Yes, it is true—this section is for pre-adoption cats,” he says. The room is for unclaimed cats being evaluated for adoption. Couture says visitors cannot enter the room for fear of compromising the cats’ health.

As for the charge that the animals are being sold to labs, Couture says, “Find me someone who can prove that I am selling animals to labs, and I will close the Berger Blanc right away.”

FOES IN HIGH PLACES

Meanwhile, Berger Blanc’s contract with the Plateau borough is up for renewal.

Projet Montréal’s Plateau borough councillor Piper Huggins is in charge of the animal-control dossier. Huggins is tight-lipped about her committee’s work, but acknowledges she has received complaints about the Berger Blanc. The committee will release its report this spring.

Staffed as it is with vocal anti-BBers—Anjali Choksi, Émilie Sauvé and committee president Isabelle Poitras—the committee is expected to insist on new practices before they renew the con*tract. BB’s contract, originally slated to expire in April, has been given a two-month extension while the committee prepares its report.

Regardless of the criteria the borough sets for bidders, the borough may have no choice but to renew with Berger: last time around, in 2009, BB was the only bidder. At the Dec. 6 meeting, Ferran*dez lamented that Berger holds a “quasi-monopoly” on local animal control, and let slip that the borough has asked the SPCA to enter a competing bid, but was turned down. Devine says the SPCA’s animal-welfare mandate doesn’t allow it to consider standardized city contracts—for instance, they won’t euthanize healthy animals surrendered to the pound.

Berger opponents are waiting anxiously to see how the situation turns out. Couture fiercely defends his business, and cautions citizens not to confuse the BB with organizations like the SPCA. “We are not there to save all of the animals,” he says. “We are an animal-control service, not a humane society.” ■

Short URL: http://www.montrealmirror.com/wp/?p=20102

I posted about my only experience w/bb in this thread. This is obviously a complex issue and i do not have all the facts - that's for sure. I have deliberately not read too much about this situation because these things always bother me. (I realize that's a lousy excuse).

Obviously we want quality pounds, schools and hospitals in our society and if 1 organization is providing sub-standard service....then yes it should be sacked and not serve people that live close by or anyone actually.

The distance factor IS VERY IMPORTANT though and imo shows a lack of concern for animals and pet owners. Not sure what else to say....


edited by admin
If, and I say 'IF' the MSPCA was able to service all these municipalities, regardless of the range it covers..that people would support this. You know that the SPCA is working with rescues and shelters to save the animals in their care.

Maybe you don't know this Marko..but for the past 16 years we have been trying to get someone to listen about this pound. No one would, yet after all these years a group of people never gave up..they kept on hounding officials. There were always those citizens that used the excuse that 'distance' was their issue. So based on this one excuse, we were unable to convince these people to be heard. Hence..16 years later.

I just hope that whatever 'pound' gets a contract work with the SPCA's and rescues. Hopefully they will be transparent so that collectively we can all work towards saving lives.

That is my :2cents:.

are you going friday BenMax??

Saving lives is a good thing.

are you going friday BenMax??

I am now living close to Ottawa so will not be able to attend this time around. Funny thing..you work so hard for this moment, and are absent to embrace all those that have been fighting all these years. Alot of my rescue friends will be there and know I am there with them in mind and spirit. What a moment for all.

yes we are all going as a group, man I hope someone pays attention...Beau is adamant about it!!

Saving lives is a good thing.

even one.....man...

yes we are all going as a group, man I hope someone pays attention...Beau is adamant about it!!

Melinda - that is great.:thumbs up. You will meet some amazing people there.
No doubt that GG will be there.

I honestly have no clue, not sure if she's back in the country yet?? have you talked to her?

I honestly have no clue, not sure if she's back in the country yet?? have you talked to her?

:offtopic: Have not and it's been a while. I do know that she is pretty active when it comes to exposing clandestine places..so I am certain that she will be thrilled to hear about this. She certainly is one person that does not mind being heard, that's for sure.

yeah its good to have people like that, I'm good (well in my own mind *L*) at organizing and getting stuff ready, but I'm a quiet person in a crowd. I like being in the background, but Beau is pushing pushing *L* I've sent her an email, hopefully if she's back she'll reply.:thumbs up

The distance factor IS VERY IMPORTANT though and imo shows a lack of concern for animals and pet owners. Not sure what else to say....Couldn't agree more. However no animal lover would ever take on a municipal animal control contract because you would be signing perfectly healthy death sentences to hundreds if not thousands of animals yearly not to mention selling animals to labs as stipulated in those contracts that have not been updated since the beginning of time. Alana/MSPCA just re-wrote an updated contract with the city of Verdun and hopefully every borough will be forced to take care of their own AC adopting her new contract.

A perfect example is Crawford Park (average age is +80) Their animal control is with GL Canine in Terrebonne. Its' crazy to expect them to take the bus for 2 hrs and pound on the garage door to see if their lost dog is there. And then of course there is visiting hours ONLY. If you call the wife, his father or brother couldn't tell you what dog or breed had been picked up that day by Mr Blais. NO ONE is keeping track any animals lost, found or surrendered. If you have the contract you do as you wish just as we have seen with the Berger Blanc. Time to wake up Quebec!

There are several more upcoming demonstrations regarding BB. Hope to see more people there :thumbs up

http://www.montrealgazette.com/life/bull+restrictions+deal+breaker+SPCA+contracts/4839912/story.html


Pit bull restrictions a deal breaker for new SPCA contracts
By Max Harrold, The Gazette May 26, 2011 Comments (3)
•Story•Photos ( 1 )
The SPCA is making pit bull bans or other restrictions on the breed in some boroughs a deal-breaker in talks to renew contracts for its services.Photograph by: Max Harrold, The GazetteMONTREAL - Stray and abandoned animals in three Montreal boroughs risk being sent to the controversial Berger Blanc pound instead of the SPCA if those communities don’t ditch their anti-pit bull bylaws, the SPCA is warning.

Outremont, Lachine and St. Laurent have pound contracts with Montreal’s SPCA, where homeless pets are reclaimed, adopted or euthanized.

But the SPCA is making pit bull bans or other restrictions on the breed in those boroughs a deal-breaker in talks to renew contracts for its services.

The ultimatum comes with Montreal at a turning point on the issue of animal control.

This month, city hall announced plans to tighten animal control rules citywide by the end of the year in the wake of a disturbing Radio-Canada investigation into Berger Blanc euthanizations.

Now the SPCA is pressing its case on more targeted animal rights issues, including pit bull bans.

The boroughs of Rivière des Prairies-Pointe aux Trembles and Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve are the latest to consider pit bull restrictions.

Such bylaws simply don’t work, said Alanna Devine, animal advocacy director with the SPCA.

“It’s not about the breed; it’s the way the dog is raised,” she said. “We’re all for dealing with dangerous dogs, just not singling out a certain breed.”

The problem with muzzling pit bulls, for example, is that it reinforces the negative stereotype that pit bulls are inherently dangerous – and “the wrong people end up with pit bulls,” Devine said.

The SPCA’s contracts with Outremont and Lachine are month-to-month and could end soon, while the deal with St. Laurent has months to go, she said.

“We won’t be renewing with those boroughs” if they don’t deal with their pit bull restrictions, she said.

St. Laurent mayor Alan DeSousa said his borough’s pit bull ban “has served public safety well.”

He stressed that the borough has been a model of progressive animal control with pet licensing and catch, spay and release programs for cats.

St. Laurent would prefer to deal with the SPCA, but DeSousa gave little indication the borough is prepared to dump its pit bull ban.

In Rivière des Prairies-Pointe aux Trembles, spokesperson Marc-Antoine Pouliot said a proposal to stipulate that pit bulls be muzzled in public is to be debated by the borough council in July.

“We are doing this in response to complaints from the public,” Pouliot said. “Someone’s chihuahua was bitten by a pit bull and died.”

He added the borough will consider Devine’s arguments.

In Outremont, a spokesperson said that borough, too, would take Devine’s views into consideration.

Joël Bergeron, head of the 2,200-member Quebec Order of Veterinarians, said he is sometimes bitten by dogs during the course of his work, but it’s just as likely to be a golden retriever or poodle. He couldn’t recall being bitten by a pit bull.

“I completely agree that banning a breed won’t solve the problem,” Bergeron said. “Why punish an entire breed because of the actions of some dog owners?”

mharrold@montrealgazette.com


Read more: http://www.montrealgazette.com/life/bull+restrictions+deal+breaker+SPCA+contracts/4839912/story.html#ixzz1NUeekbYQ

I see what the MSPCA is saying..but it's a risky stand to take. What about then all the other animals that will be risked in the hands of a pound? Sacrifice one for the good of what exactly then?
I don't think I really support this as the fate of all animals in these borrows are at risk then.

I agree with you BM - this is VERY tricky. But I applaud the SPCA here. If nobody makes a stance like this, things are much slower to change. I have seen the MSPCA itself change for the better so I don't mind them trying to educate the boroughs on the silliness of Pitbull bans. Given the bad news coming out of the BB - maybe a better perceived organization should lead here.

On one hand, THE MSPCAs stance is tough and DOES make the right point imo....and maybe now is the time to get that point across - (that breed bans don't work - that animal welfare is more than a place to dump a pet that doesn't suit people's needs anymore).The fact that they have incorporated that into their "mission" is very progressive and I'm impressed that they have taken it that far.

It's so tough though....because you are right. I predict some boroughs will not shy away from breed ban thinking and we know what the end result will be for many dogs and the perception of those dogs....

The MSPCA is thinking long term here (by trying to think about changing people's perceptions )and I truly hope it can work

I personally see more good in this than bad (and I sadly accept that there will continue to be sad consequences) but I would indeed support this. ESPECIALLY now that the BB is getting a bad rap....now is the time for the MSPCA and other rescue organizations to try and wake people up to better ways of treating pets and animals and speaking against pitbull bans are indeed a part of this. :2cents:

So many good points you bring Marko. I am really on the fence about it however. I do understand her point, and I do applaude them as they have collectively as an organization provided good measures...I still think of all animals globally and not just one breed.

As you know I do take in the pits and therefore I am not on this 'ban the pitbull' parade. I am definately all for educating and I do not believe that this ban is effective. It is just that right now, at this turning point involving BB..is this the right time to use this as leverage?

Contracts are the meat and potatoes for shelters. Is this the right time to only eat potatoes? Not so sure. They have strategically educated one borrow...in my opinion, they can strategically move onto the other without being as radical at this point.

Don't get me wrong. I have alot of respect for this shelter.. (for obvious reasons), and I will continue to support them regardless of their decision.

....

As you know I do take in the pits and therefore I am not on this 'ban the pitbull' parade. I am definately all for educating and I do not believe that this ban is effective. It is just that right now, at this turning point involving BB..is this the right time to use this as leverage? ....



I think now IS the right time even if it doesn't work. Just the term pit bull ban needs to be fought by reasonable people and organizations. People should hear that well socialized pitbulls make great family pets and that they are not evil. It SHOULD come from the SPCA.

It's the ONLY (maybe not only, but good for sure) way to fight the stoopid bias against pitbulls that exists partially to sell newspapers and TV commercials. (If it bleeds it leads).

Now that some feces is hitting a fan - perfect time I think. :2cents:

Now that some feces is hitting a fan - perfect time I think. :2cents:

Maybe Marko. Whatever the outcome, I hope it's worth this risk.

now is the time for the MSPCA and other rescue organizations to try and wake people up to better ways of treating pets and animals and speaking against pitbull bans are indeed a part of this. :2cents: :thumbs up

My issue is jeopardizing ALL breeds and ALL species for ONE 'type' of dog. One must think globally rather than advocating for only one.
I get the message here...I just hope that this Ultimatum will be worth what they are trying to accomplish.

Again - we say 'educate' the public and yet the message here is 'do this or else'...
I am not so sure that this is a tactful way of maintaining contracts.

My issue is jeopardizing ALL breeds and ALL species for ONE 'type' of dog. One must think globally rather than advocating for only one.
I get the message here...I just hope that this Ultimatum will be worth what they are trying to accomplish.

Again - we say 'educate' the public and yet the message here is 'do this or else'...
I am not so sure that this is a tactful way of maintaining contracts.

There's no way this is tactful I agree...and honestly that's what impresses me here. They may LOSE contracts and funding.... (though I'm fairly certain they know they will have enough boroughs that will support them)

They are trying to change things, trying to be a leader. I for one am very happy that they are trying. No one organization can change every problem - but the fact that they have added this "mission" to their policy.... wow, very impressive to me.

There's no way this is tactful I agree...and honestly that's what impresses me here. They may LOSE contracts and funding.... (though I'm fairly certain they know they will have enough boroughs that will support them)

They are trying to change things, trying to be a leader. I for one am very happy that they are trying. No one organization can change every problem - but the fact that they have added this "mission" to their policy.... wow, very impressive to me.

At the expense of ALL animals within these borrows??? How is that fair to the other breeds and mix breeds and not to mention the cats?

They did so well with another in changing the mind set about feral cats and colonies. They have made such wonderful strides forward in educating. My issue is why go so radical now?

I seriously feel for all those 'other' animals that they will not profit from a good organization...all in the name of one particular type of dog. It just seems unjust for animals as a whole.

I seriously feel for all those 'other' animals that they will not profit from a good organization...all in the name of one particular type of dog. It just seems unjust for animals as a whole.

What if it sets a precedent? What if it's Pitbulls this year, Dobermans next.. and then Rotties, Danes, etc? What's the expresion.. give an inch and they'll take a mile? Some people truly believe all large dogs should be banned, not just Pitbulls. Where will it stop?

I don't think there really is a perfect answer to all this (except for BSL going away altogether, of course).

What if it sets a precedent? What if it's Pitbulls this year, Dobermans next.. and then Rotties, Danes, etc? What's the expresion.. give an inch and they'll take a mile? Some people truly believe all large dogs should be banned, not just Pitbulls. Where will it stop?

I don't think there really is a perfect answer to all this (except for BSL going away altogether, of course).

The other breeds you listed are not in the forefront...so it's not even a topic of discussion.
Your key word is 'What if'. There is no 'What ifs' for the other animals if the the MSPCA does not get their way on this one. That is my point.
Also, I will say it again...for YEARS I have been getting pits out of Ontario and therefore I am more familiar with this then people may expect. So I do not really require any education on what is happening in Ontario as I daily deal with this and help out many rescues getting pitties and amstaffs somewhere safe..and not only in Quebec.

My point is what about the other animals? The MSPCA are huge pitbull advocates and favor this type of dog in particular. I just wish more effort went into the other dogs and not just this one.

I hear your points and I appreciate them, but I do not agree with this method at all.

Re-posting Marko's link: The SPCA proudly announces the unveiling of its new animal services contract with the borough of Verdun which will be in effect as of May 1, 2011 http://www.pets.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=76901

The SPCA will no longer offer old model animal control services!!! YAY it's about time!

1st time in history that a borough in Quebec isn't allowed to sell intact animals whether through advertisement, byb, puppy mill or pet stores. Surely Alanna isn't going to turn around and sign AC contracts with boroughs who have a pit bull ban or now trying to enforce one - just ridiculous to not only think otherwise but to place burden if she doesn't sign on WOW < --- > ref to some editorial views/comments in the Gazette that are too uneducated to post.

Look what happened in Ontario, it all started with one dog named Ziggy and one man named Michael Bryant - how is that working?

Now that the Berger Blanc has been EXPOSED, I agree 110% it's the perfect time to give ultimatum's to boroughs. Either sign on the dotted line OR face public outcry should their city re-sign or not cease using BB et pals as their for-profit pound.

Instead of wasting tax paying $ why not start banning from every single burough: For-profit pounds. Pounds/pet stores/on-line who sell intact animals. Pounds who use the gas chamber. Pounds who don't vet the animals in their care. Pounds who allow employees to euthanize healthy or ill animals. Pounds without any traceability or accountability. Pounds who don't do everything in the power to reunite lost pets with owners.

Ironic isn't it, Berger Blanc gets exposed suddendly more boroughs are considering pit bulls bans - "man vs dangerous animals" ... instead of fighting for their rights to no longer allow abusers to LEGALLY and further harm the already neglected whom BTW WE pay to do, we should be ashamed that our focus is on society's voiceless victims over the safety of humans - deflecting much?

The only one who is forcing this ultimatum is our wonderful mayor $ Tremblay $ not Alanna Devine, Director of Animal Welfare!


There's no way this is tactful I agree...and honestly that's what impresses me here. They may LOSE contracts and funding.... (though I'm fairly certain they know they will have enough boroughs that will support them)

They are trying to change things, trying to be a leader. I for one am very happy that they are trying. No one organization can change every problem - but the fact that they have added this "mission" to their policy.... wow, very impressive to me. :highfive:

:2cents: and then some :)

What if it sets a precedent? What if it's Pitbulls this year, Dobermans next.. and then Rotties, Danes, etc? What's the expresion.. give an inch and they'll take a mile? Some people truly believe all large dogs should be banned, not just Pitbulls. Where will it stop?

I don't think there really is a perfect answer to all this (except for BSL going away altogether, of course).

+1

There's something like 3 million people in Montreal I think. MSPCA cannot serve them all and they cannot protect all of Montreal's animals....It's sad but true. Seems to me they are the largest shelter in Montreal and they are taking a good lead here. yes some animals will suffer because of this and this saddens me.

BUT.....who better than MSCPA to start a serious campaign against BSL. I hate to make human historical comparisons about oppressed people and their struggle for rights....so I won't. But MSPCA is now standing up (IMO) for animals in general even though this is only about 1 breed. LL is 100% right - when I was a kid Doberman Pinschers were the devil dogs and let's be real....there's SO many breeds that could be on this list instead of pitbulls.

All it takes is a bunch of stories to appear in the media and Dobermans could easily be ADDED to an existing ban on Pitbulls...so could many dogs.

By saying NO to BSL, imo, long term, this will have a positive effect on the perception of animals in general and will make Montreal a better place for animals.....despite the casualties which are inevitable. But that's the key here BM, long term.... :2cents:

What if it sets a precedent? What if it's Pitbulls this year, Dobermans next.. and then Rotties, Danes, etc? What's the expresion.. give an inch and they'll take a mile? Some people truly believe all large dogs should be banned, not just Pitbulls. Where will it stop? Since no one can even identify a pit every +35 lb dog will be at risk so it isn't just about 1 breed.

Since no one can even identify a pit every +35 lb dog will be at risk so it isn't just about 1 breed.

Very true. It is about interpretation once again as to what is deemed a pitbull. Pure amstaff is just that.

I do realize that I may be the only one that sees things this way. I certainly realize it is not popular, but in my mind it makes sense to save all and not just one.

My :2cents:.:)

BB lost their contract with the Plateau-Mont-Royal - as of June 14'11 MSPCA takes over
http://www.journalmetro.com/linfo/article/881199--le-plateau-s-engage-avec-la-spca

Municipalities with BB contract - assembly dates.
If you live in these buroughs attend and voice your concerns.
http://www.facebook.com/notes/spa-canada/dates-dassembl%C3%A9s-des-villes-et-arrondissements-ayant-un-contrat-avec-le-berger-b/229798453701719

While not perfect I'm thankful the city of LaSalle handles our own Animal Control and feel every city should manage theirs. SPA Canada is pledging public support for all Quebec municipalities to cease and abolish contracts with ''profit shelters" and is asking the provincial government to declare this industry, illegal. Upcoming demonstrations: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=113646465391150

Thx for the update! :thumbs up

BB lost their contract with the Plateau-Mont-Royal - as of June 14'11 MSPCA takes over
http://www.journalmetro.com/linfo/article/881199--le-plateau-s-engage-avec-la-spca

Municipalities with BB contract - assembly dates.
If you live in these buroughs attend and voice your concerns.
http://www.facebook.com/notes/spa-canada/dates-dassembl%C3%A9s-des-villes-et-arrondissements-ayant-un-contrat-avec-le-berger-b/229798453701719

While not perfect I'm thankful the city of LaSalle handles our own Animal Control and feel every city should manage theirs. SPA Canada is pledging public support for all Quebec municipalities to cease and abolish contracts with ''profit shelters" and is asking the provincial government to declare this industry, illegal. Upcoming demonstrations: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=113646465391150

Even though we haven't published a podcast in a while, we WILL be putting one up on this topic (if all goes well) within 2 weeks.

Even though we haven't published a podcast in a while, we WILL be putting one up on this topic (if all goes well) within 2 weeks.If you need any unbias assistance on this topic I'm available :D Excellent time for a podcast :highfive:

I really appreciate the offer GG :goodvibes: but I already have my expert and the gist of the podcast lined up.

Thx tho :thumbs up

I already have my expert and the gist of the podcast lined upI have no doubt :goodvibes: I hope it's who I think it is :) Looking forward to it!

To recap: A shocking report broadcast on Radio-Canada’s "Enquête" program revealed cruel practices at Berger Blanc, Montreal’s municipal pound.

An SPA Canada investigator went undercover at the animal pound. For six weeks, he worked as a maintenance worker at Berger Blanc. He cleaned the cages, fed the animals, and even attended two mass euthanizations. On many occasions, he witnessed terrible treatment of the cats and dogs in the care of the for-profit pound.

SPA Canada is asking the public to show its dissatisfaction by attending the upcoming demonstration and by asking the mayor of Montreal to end all of its contracts with Berger Blanc and to no longer hire for-profit companies to take care of stray and homeless animals. For more information, please see the poster below for the demonstration.

Upcoming manifestation pour faire fermer le Berger Blanc, Samedi 18 Juin
(13h00-14h30) à MONTRÉAL:

Hôtel de Ville de Montréal
275, rue Notre-Dame Est
(Métro Champ-de-Mars)

Together let's denouce animal cruelty!

Feel free to print the pdf of the event(s)
http://www.bergerblanccruaute.com/pdf/manif-bb-18-juin-11-bw.pdf

Just as an FYI, I recorded an interview podcast related to this topic yesterday. It will be published early next week or sooner and I'll throw a link in this thread as well for anyone who is interested.


Thx!

Just as an FYI, I recorded an interview podcast related to this topic yesterday. It will be published early next week or sooner and I'll throw a link in this thread as well for anyone who is interested.


Thx!Thank you!

Meanwhile ... I wasn't able to attend yesterday's protest downtown but there were also 3 other ones; Sherbrooke, Ste-Adele & Gatineau

If anyone attended or has updates please post here thanks!

Just as an FYI, I recorded an interview podcast related to this topic yesterday. It will be published early next week or sooner and I'll throw a link in this thread as well for anyone who is interested.


Thx!Hey Marko just wondering if you've posted this podcast, if so where could I find it? Thanks in advance.

Hi members,

The podcast just went live here http://www.pets.ca/blog/pet-podcast/57-breed-specific-legislation-in-montreal/

It talks about BSL in general and how it is affecting Montreal.

Although comments are appreciated everywhere, commenting directly in the blog post...is equally appreciated.

Thx!
Marko

ESPECIALLY now that the BB is getting a bad rap....now is the time for the MSPCA and other rescue organizations to try and wake people up to better ways of treating pets and animals and speaking against pitbull bans are indeed a part of this. :2cents:

:thumbs up:thumbs up:thumbs up:thumbs up:thumbs up

Excellent pod cast, thanks Marko & Alanna :thumbs up

Thx GG!

I'm going to follow up w/Alanna sometime in the near future and I'll post again when I do.

*Bump*

Thx GG!

I'm going to follow up w/Alanna sometime in the near future and I'll post again when I do.:highfive:

Great podcast, Alanna and Marko. Really does a good job of explaining why BSL doesn't work :thumbs up

Thx!
Yeah Alanna is awesome! Next interview though I'm gonna try and have it dog free - makes the editing so much easier :D

Maybe it's just that I live in a high dog traffic area, but I didn't even notice the dog. :o