Regulatory perspectives: Teamwork drives success

The importance of teamwork remained a strong theme during the 2019 LCC Regulatory Panel discussion, which offered a window on the relationships between key groups involved in identifying and addressing animal welfare issues.

Panelists included Kristen Hall of AFAC, who is an AFAC ALERT line coordinator;  Cpl. Lindsey Anderson of the RCMP; Shawn McLean of Livestock Identification Services; and Ken Dean of the Alberta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).

Effective communication and coordination between these groups is essential, particularly during periods when conditions such as  prolonged harsh cold during the winter tend to result in more calls and incidences related to welfare concerns. “This February for example really was crunch time with the weather we had,” says Dean. “In every category our calls increased. It’s a time when you really need to be on your toes and working with partner organizations to make sure everything gets handled to the best outcome for the animals.”

Organizations such as those represented on the panel provide a strong collective resource. “On a more routine basis, often calls end up not being urgent animal care issues but provide opportunities for education or to help talk through concerns,” says Hall, involved in the ALERT line which serves as a 24/7 producer helping producer call line. “We listen, provide information and where needed help link in further support and resources.”