The Windsor-Essex County Humane Society wants to make sure that when you vote on October 22, you know where the candidates stand on animal issues.
It has released the results of a recent survey of candidates running in the municipal election in Windsor and the rest of Essex County. A total of 78 candidates running for mayor, councillor, or school board trustee responded.
All but one candidate running in Windsor said they believe the municipal government should care about animal welfare. Only three did not support the voucher program for spaying and neutering feral cats, and of those, one admitted more information was needed before an informed decision could be made.
Those who took part were more split on the issue of whether municipal governments should impose limits on how many pets a resident should be allowed to keep. Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens stated that he supported limits for dogs, cats, and reptiles, while his primary opponent, Matt Marchand, said he needed more information.
"I would like to work with the Humane Society and other groups in a collaborative manner on these issues going forward, engaging experts in this field to provide the best ideas and solutions," wrote Marchand.
As for bylaws banning the use of animals in events like circuses, the majority of candidates were in favour.
"I have served two terms on Essex council championing many animal welfare causes and gaining council support for them," wrote Sherry Bondy, who is running for re-election in Essex's Ward 4. "Essex has led (sic) the way with issues, tethering, trap neuter release programs, fines for dumping animals, fines for unsafe transport. We have banned circuses performing in our municipality and passed an (sic) exotic pet bylaw."
As a registered charity, the humane society is not allowed to endorse candidates.
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