FAQ

Can NPS refuse owners (living in NL) permission to castrate (geld) their Newfoundland Pony stallions?

• Within the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, NPS has the opportunity to review requests made by owners of Newfoundland Pony stallions to have their stallions castrated. This does not mean that NPS regulates this practice. When NPS receives a request to castrate, they review the records of the animal in question in respect to its genetic value and progeny on the ground. They then speak to the owner to determine if there are any alternatives to castration. These alternatives could include trading the stallion for another animal or delaying the castration until the stallion can cover another season of mares. If however, the pony owner is determined to have the animal castrated, NPS cannot stop this from happening. It is the owner’s fundamental right. If there are any further questions regarding this issue, they can be referred to the Newfoundland Pony Society or Dr. Hugh Whitney, Provincial Veterinarian for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Does the HAA (Heritage Animals Act of Newfoundland and Labrador) give NPS the authority to “seize” ponies?

• NPS does not have any legal authority under the Act. The Designation of Inspectors Order is the legal document which identifies where the authority lies. It states: “3. The Director of Animal Health and Regional Veterinarians in the employ of the Animal Health Division of the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods are designated as inspectors under paragraph 6(1)(c) of the Act.” However, NPS does have a responsibility to protect the health and welfare of the Newfoundland Pony and will notify the appropriate authorities if warranted by the situation.

Are only those ponies registered by NPS considered Newfoundland Ponies?

• A Newfoundland Pony is a Newfoundland Pony whether registered or not. However, there is no proof that a pony is a Newfoundland Pony unless it has been accepted and registered by NPS.

Are only those ponies registered by NPS after the HAA came into effect considered Heritage Animals of NL?

• All Newfoundland Ponies recognized by NPS are considered Heritage Animals.

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