Shot Livestock Compensation Program

The Shot Livestock Compensation Program provides compensation to producers whose livestock is shot by another person in a Wildlife Management Unit in which there is an open recreational season for the hunting of big game or game birds.

Funding for the Shot Livestock Compensation Program comes from dedicated revenue from the sale of recreational hunting and fishing licences.

Frequently Asked Questions

I think my livestock has been shot. How do I make a claim?

• Contact your nearest detachment of the RCMP as soon as possible. The investigating officer may suggest that you cover the carcass with a tarp in order to prevent evidence from being lost to scavenging.
• Contact a veterinarian to examine the dead or injured animal. If the livestock is confirmed as having been shot, the owner may submit a claim for fees paid to a veterinarian for the services of the veterinarian's investigation into whether or not the animal was shot or the medical treatment of the animal's injury.
• The RCMP investigating officer will examine the livestock and evidence from the area to confirm whether or not the animal was shot.
• If the evidence confirms that the livestock was shot, the investigating RCMP officer will file the compensation claim on behalf of the producer.
• Shot Livestock Compensation Application (PDF, 176 KB)

What types of livestock are eligible for compensation?

• Domestic cow, domestic goat, domestic sheep, domestic swine, bison and domestic horse are eligible for compensation.

How am I compensated if it is confirmed that my livestock has been shot?

• If a suspect in the shooting of the livestock has or will be charged by the RCMP, the producer should pursue restitution for the value of the livestock through the options available through the courts.
• If the livestock is insured, the producer should pursue compensation through their insurance coverage. The amount of the deductible (if applicable) for the claim may be eligible.
• If suspects have not been identified, or if the accused is found to be not-guilty in the case, the compensation for the dead livestock is calculated at 100% of the value of the animal to a maximum, in the case of a horse, of $2000.00. Veterinary and medication costs incurred by the producer for the treatment of eligible shot livestock are eligible, but cannot exceed the market value of the animal.