On October 6, 2025 Pets Canada gathered on Parliament Hill for its 3rd Annual Advocacy Day, an energetic and purpose-driven event that once again brought the Canadian pet industry face to face with federal decision makers. Delegates from across the country met with Members of Parliament to champion the needs of animals, the families who care for them, and the businesses that keep them thriving.
Front L-R: Alain Taillefer (Hagen Group), Steve Schlichtmann (Burgham Sales), Patience Manon (Pets Canada), Karima Jivraj (Bosley’s by Pet Valu – Columbia Square Plaza), Cyril Lemyre (Hurraw), Tonya Martin (Pets Canada), Sara Côté (La Grande Menagerie)
Driving Real Conversations for Real Change
This was not just another round of polite meetings. It was a day filled with determined voices and strong partnerships. From early strategy sessions to back-to-back MP and departmental meetings, our delegates made sure the message was clear: pets matter to families, to communities, and to Canada’s economy.
Key issues on the table included:
- Removing GST from pet food to reflect the essential role pets play in Canadian homes
- Including pets in national emergency and evacuation plans, particularly during wildfires and other crises
- Strengthening trade and market access so Canadian pet businesses can remain competitive despite global ingredient and supply challenges
- Across all meetings, MPs shared genuine concern about the barriers facing Canadian businesses and the growing trend of companies leaving the country. These discussions reinforced that Pets Canada’s advocacy is timely, practical, and essential.
United for a Stronger Industry
Representatives from every corner of the pet industry, retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and service providers, came together with one shared goal: to build a future where both pets and the businesses that support them can thrive. The message was unified, the tone was optimistic, and the collaboration was inspiring.
Gratitude to Our Champions
Pets Canada extends sincere thanks to all the MPs who welcomed our delegates and engaged in meaningful dialogue about the industry’s priorities. Their openness and curiosity show a real commitment to the wellbeing of animals and the families who love them.
Special appreciation goes to MP James Maloney for sponsoring this year’s event as well as Impact Public Affairs. Their leadership and ongoing partnership made Advocacy Day a resounding success.
Last but certainly not least, we want to spotlight our members who were the heroes of the day – Amy Pawson Blackwell (Petland Canada), Craig Brummell (Essex Topcrop), Steve Schlichtmann (Burgham Sales), Sara Côté (La Grande Menagerie), Zara Willmott (Cat Sitter Toronto Inc.), Karima Jivraj (Bosley’s by Pet Valu – Columbia Square Plaza), Robert Church (The Top Dog Store), Cyril Lemyre (Hurraw), Martin Lebel (Hagen Group), Alain Taillefer (Hagen Group), Emily Corey (Corey Nutrition), Jacqueline Martin (MarCam Pet Nutrition), Daniel Villeneuve (Pitou minou & compagnons/ Global Pet Foods) From across the country, they travelled to Ottawa to speak on behalf of the pet industry and our collective mission to protect what we’ve built and who we serve.
Looking Ahead
Advocacy Day 2025 proved that when the pet industry speaks together, Parliament listens. Pets Canada will continue to champion policies that recognize pets as part of Canada’s social and economic fabric, ensuring that the businesses supporting them have the tools to grow and innovate.
This year’s Advocacy Day was not only productive but a reminder of what happens when passion meets purpose. The work continues, and Pets Canada is proud to lead the way.
