Thank you for your email, and for your work on this issue.

In response to the question in your letter, I can defintely say that I would be supportive (and vote in favour) of appropriate animal
protection by-laws aimed at preventing this type of mistreatment of dogs (or other animals).

I also agree with you that questions about the Vancouver Charter are not an excuse. There is no reason to pretend that it would not be easy to amend the Charter if there was the politial will to do so.

The only caution I need to raise is about priorities. As noted, if such a by-law comes forward, I would support it. However, I am
feeling a little daunted by all the urgent and challenging issues that will need to be tackled after the election. The work will be
particularly challenging if there is a minority of progressive candidates elected. If I am a part of the Council, my priority will be
to focus on community building and bringing a more wholistic approach to how the city is governed.

If there is no one else elected who will bring animal rights issues forward, I will certainly do my best to work with you on this, but I
would not want to promise more than I can deliver. I will need to work with the Council that the voters give us.

If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact me.

Regards

Doug Warkentin
Green Party Candidate
Vancouver City Council
604-684-3850