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IMPORTANT INFORMATIONPlease read the Bill 132 Questions and Answers document for a plain English explanation of the new law.
Chronology of Bill 132August 29, 2004At 3:00 in the morning on August 29, 2004, in a back alley in a crack-infested area of Toronto, a man is walking two unneutered male "pit bull" type dogs. Although not the owner of the dogs, he is referred to in newspaper reports as a friend of the owner and the "breeder" of the dogs.
Nobody knows exactly what happens next or why. Eyewitnesses state that, just prior to the attack, the man had the larger of the two dogs in a "headlock". Whatever caused these two dogs to attack this man, the results are horrific. He has serious injuries to his head and legs. The dogs are shot multiple times by police. October 15, 2004Michael Bryant, Attorney General for the province of Ontario, holds a press conference which he begins with the statement "Banned! Banned! We are banning pit bulls in the province of Ontario".
The text of his press conference is here October 26, 2004First reading of Bill 132 in the legislature November 4, 2004Debate of Bill 132 in the legislature November 8, 2004Banned Aid retains Clayton Ruby to challenge the constitutionality of the legislation November 15, 2004Debate of Bill 132 in the legislature December 8, 2004Debate of Bill 132 in the legislature December 9, 2004Second reading of Bill 132 in the legislature January 24, 2005First committee public hearing (Toronto) January 27, 2005Second committee public hearing (Barrie) February 2, 2005Third committee public hearing (Brantford) February 3, 2005Fourth committee public hearing (Toronto) February 10, 2005Clause-by-clause vote on amendments (Toronto) February 15, 2005Amended Bill reported to the legislature February 28, 2005Third reading of Bill 132 in the legislature March 1, 2005March 9, 2005Royal assent is given to the legislation. August 28, 2005Opponents of the legislation hold a candlelight vigil at Queen's Park. August 29, 2005Bill 132 is enacted. The majority of the legislation's provisions are now in effect.
Clayton Ruby files an application with the Superior Court of Ontario October 28, 2005The muzzle, leash, and spay/neuter portions of the legislation take effect. November 27, 2005From this date forward, no more restricted puppies can be born in the province. May 15, 2006First day of the court challenge. May 16, 2006Second day of the court challenge. May 18, 2006Third day of the court challenge. Judge reserves her decision. August 27, 2006Opponents of the legislation hold a one-year anniversary candlelight vigil.
REFERENCE DOCUMENTSMichael Bryant's press conference introducing the legislation
History of the Bill in the Ontario Legislature
Bill 132 as passed by the Ontario Legislature (i.e., the Ontario Liberal Party) The amended Dog Owners' Liability Act The Dog Owners' Liability Act Regulations Regarding Pit Bull Controls The amended Animals for Research Act
Questions and Answers (courtesy of the Dog Legislation Council of Canada) |
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Updated September 27, 2007
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