Zoocheck Canada is a national animal protection charity (#13150 2072 RR 0001) established in 1984 to promote and protect the interests and well-being of wild animals.

For more than 20 years, Zoocheck has been a leading voice for the protection of wild animals. We are the only Canadian organization with a specific focus on captive wild animal issues and problems.

Today, throughout Canada, thousands of wild animals are held captive in zoos, aquariums and private menageries. Many more are brought into the country each year by circuses, traveling shows and entertainment companies. And tens of thousands of exotic fish, amphibians, reptiles and birds, many of them caught in the wild, are imported into Canada, joining the thousands of exotic birds and mammals already bought and sold in the wild animal pet trade. Unfortunately, comprehensive laws prohibiting the exploitation and abuse of these animals are weak and poorly enforced in many parts of Canada.

Zoocheck has been working to improve wildlife protection in Canada and to end the abuse, neglect and exploitation of individual wild animals through:

• investigation and research
• public education and awareness campaigns
• capacity building initiatives
• legal programs
• legislative actions

Success

Over the years, Zoocheck's professional, animal protection campaigns have resulted in the closure of some of Canada's worst zoos; the cancellation of plans to construct new zoos and aquariums; improved husbandry conditions for captive wild animals; new or improved municipal bylaws across the country that control or prohibit the keeping and display of wild animals by private citizens, circuses and traveling shows; regional and national public education and awareness programs; a greater awareness of captive wildlife issues; and support for projects that directly protect animals in the wild.

Zoocheck has also provided vital support to the efforts of individuals, organizations and governments throughout Canada and around the world as they work to address wildlife problems and issues in their own regions. Training workshops have been conducted, campaign tools developed and advice, information and assistance have been provided to hundreds of different animal protection initiatives over the years.

How You Can Help

Zoocheck's important animal protection work is entirely dependent on donations from people like you. We receive no government funding. Your support is what makes Zoocheck's campaigns and projects possible. Please give the animals a voice and become a Zoocheck supporter today. All donations are tax-deductible.

Download Zoocheck brochure (pdf file)

We endeavor to promote animal protection in specific situations and strive to bring about a new respect for all living things and the world in which they live.