Whether you're trying to change an existing law, policy or situation; opposing a potential change; or keeping government aware of your views as a voter, venturing into the political arena and helping shape legislation can be both a frustrating and incredibly rewarding experience. Below are ten tips to help support your efforts to bring about positive change.

1. Research the issue using all available resources. Request information (fact sheets, articles, news releases) from animal protection groups, such as the Ontario SCPA, World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA), Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). The more facts and arguments you're aware of, the more effective you'll be.
   
   
2. Work with key people who have influence over animals. City by-law staff, animal control officers, health department officials and veterinarians can have an important impact on animal protection bills. Legislators often listen to their voices so work with them whenever possible.
   
   
3. Research your legislators. The most important step in lobbying is to communicate your viewpoint to the right people. Know who represents you at all levels of government. To find out your local Member of Parliament, call 1-800-622-6232 or click here. For information about other elected officials visit Elections Ontario. Speak with others who've worked for legislative change and ask for their input on which legislators are most effective, or which committees may be more inclined to approve your bill. Avoid party politics - you never know where you'll find a supporter.
   
   
4. Understand what influences a legislator. Elected officials are above all, politicians, and when they are up for re-election they are typically more willing to listen to interests outside of their traditional concerns. The following are important questions to keep in mind when lobbying elected officials. The answers will influence how a legislator responds to the issue.

   The Issue:

   • What are key benefits of the issue?
   • What impact does it have on his/her riding?
   • What's the general public's sentiment or knowledge about the issue?
   • What is the cost and the issue's impact on business or the economy?
   • What previous action has the official taken on the issue in the past?

   Influences:

   • Is there an upcoming election in which the legislator faces tight competition?
   • Is an interest group committed to the issue (if so, it may tie more voters to a single issue)?
   • How often does the legislator have encounters with the public or grassroots contact with constituents?
   • Does the issue impact the legislator personally or impact others important to the legislator?
   • What is the legislator's personal feeling about the issue (how do his family and friends feel)?
   
   
   
5. Cultivate relationships. Maintain a positive relationship with all legislators and respect their differences of opinion. You may find common ground on a later issue, and today's city council member can be tomorrow's premier. It is also important to establish a positive relationship with legislative staff persons. They are usually more accessible then legislators, often have tremendous influence over an issue, and can give you vital background on the legislation's outlook. Always remember to thank someone who was helpful.
   
   
6. Identify your bill/issue clearly and personalize your appeal. Don't refer to a bill by its number alone. Be sure to include the bill's name and explain why the issue is important to you personally (e.g. how it affects you, your family and community). If possible, link the issue to a personal situation or experience in the elected official's riding. Listen carefully to elected official's questions and comments on an issue. If he or she asks how a bill will impact farmers or hunters, you'll know where his concern is focused and you can find ways to address those issues. Your message should be short, direct and honest.
   
   
7. Join forces with other groups. Do join forces with other types of groups that may have the same position as you, even if it's for different reasons, such as teachers unions, chambers of commerce, local universities or specific industries.
   
   
8. Involve the media. Learn how to work with your local media to bring issues of concern to the forefront. As well, consider writing a letter to the editor to help shift public opinion and influence policy. Click here for pointers on how to write an effective letter and increase your chances of having it published.
   
   
9. Voice your concerns. Mention how important it is for your elected officials to adequately fund animal programs ranging from animal cruelty investigations to provincial enforcement of wildlife protection laws. Let them know how you wish your tax dollars spent. Make an effort to appear at town meetings and other events, and be sure they hear you ask at least one question on animal issues at each event.
   
   
10. Be flexible. Sometimes a compromise is required. Support legislative strategies - such as grandfathering clauses, adoption of sunset provisions, and placing provisions into regulations instead of statutes - that may save an otherwise doomed bill if there are still benefits within the legislation that can improve the lives of animals.