Say Neigh to Delay: Urge the Senate to Pass Bill C-355 & Ban Live Horse Export for Slaughter!

Every year, thousands of Canadian horses are flown to Japan, where they are killed and served raw as sashimi—a delicacy for the rich. For years, Animal Justice has been working with animal protection groups and compassionate Canadians to call for an end to this cruel and unnecessary practice. After the government promised to ban live horse exports for slaughter in 2021, we were thrilled when MP Tim Louis introduced Bill C-355 to end the practice last year and the Bill passed the House of Commons in May of 2024. 

But since May, Bill C-355 has been languishing without progress in the Senate. Because it is being delayed by conservative Senators, Bill C-355 is now under threat. If it is to pass before the next federal election, the Bill needs to move forward to committee study in the Senate as soon as possible. 

Live Horse Exporters Frequently Violate the Law

Terrified draft horses destined for slaughter in Japan are trucked from feedlots in western Canada to the Winnipeg and Edmonton airports, crammed into wooden crates, and transported for over 24 hours without food, water, or rest. In fact, a shocking investigation by Animal Justice and Japan-based Life Investigation Agency (LIA) shows that most shipments likely exceed the 28 hour legal limit, leaving horses to endure unimaginable and prolonged suffering.

A second investigation by Animal Justice and LIA shows that horses shipped to Japan are becoming injured, developing illnesses, and even dying during and in the hours and days after transport. Between June 2023 and May 2024 alone, at least 21 horses died as a result of the conditions of transport to Japan. None of these injuries, illnesses, or deaths were reported to Canadian officials.

Horses died during transport and after landing due to a range of conditions, including stress, dehydration, and injuries sustained during the long flight overseas. At least two appear to have died due to miscarriage. Many appear to have received inadequate veterinary care in Japan, compounding their pain and suffering.

Canadians Support Ban on Horse Export for Slaughter

Canadians have been calling for a ban on live horse exports for slaughter for over a decade. Tens of thousands have taken action – signing petitions, contacting elected representatives, and taking to the streets to demand change. Many even cast their vote during the last election with this important commitment in mind. 

Since then, more than 6,000 horses have been shipped from Canada to their death overseas. The suffering must stop.

Please take a moment to let Senators know that you want to see Bill C-355 move ahead quickly so that it can be passed before the next election. Conservative Senators’ reckless delay tactics could doom thousands of horses to endure the agonizing journey to Japan all to be slaughtered and served as a delicacy for the rich.

Please join us in emailing Senators and asking them to stop the delay!