Home >> About Us >> Animal Welfare

Animal Welfare

The Saskatchewan SPCA defines animal welfare as the maintenance of appropriate standards of accommodation, feeding and general care; the prevention and treatment of disease and the assurance of freedom from harassment and unnecessary discomfort and pain.

The Saskatchewan SPCA recognizes that animals will continue to be kept for companionship, agricultural, research and entertainment purposes.

Our purpose is to protect animals, prevent cruelty to animals and to relieve suffering. We believe that people do not have the right to exploit or abuse animals.

Five Freedoms

The Saskatchewan SPCA accepts the five freedoms as developed by the United Kingdom Farm Animal Welfare Council (FAWC).  

1. Freedom from thirst, hunger and malnutrition: ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour.
2. Freedom from discomfort: provision of a suitable environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.
3. Freedom from pain, injury and disease: prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.
4. Freedom to express normal behaviour: provision of sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal’s own kind.
5. Freedom from fear and distress: conditions avoid mental suffering.

–Revised, 1993