The seal harvest in Newfoundland and Labrador has been increasingly well regulated since the 1960s.

The first seal protection regulations were established in 1964. In 1965, the regulations gave clear definition to humane harvesting. All harvesters were required to possess a seal harvesting license. This same year fisheries officers manned vessels greater than 65 feet in length and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) began conducting regular dockside monitoring to validate landings data and ensure compliance with quota restrictions.

In 1985, DFO introduced regulations that specified the means and tools to harvest the animal in the most humane manner.

In 1987, in accordance with the Malouf Commission (a report which established the future policy on the management of the seal harvest), DFO adopted a policy to prohibit the harvest of whitecoat and blueback seals for commercial purposes. The use of vessels larger than 65 feet for sealing was also prohibited in 1987.

DFO created the first seal harvest management plan in 1992 and the Marine Mammal Regulations were adopted in 1993. These regulations prohibit the trade, sale and barter of the fur of harp and hooded seal pups. Regulatory amendments were also introduced to ensure proper gauge ammunition is used in the seal harvest.

Since 2003, a blinking eye reflex test has been required to be performed to ensure that the seal is expired before further processing the animal. Sometimes a seal may appear to be moving after it has been properly harvested. However, seals have a swimming reflex that is active even after death. This reflex gives the false impression that the animal is still alive.

The most recent information on the humaneness of the harvest is the Report of the Independent Veterinarians Working Group on the Canadian Harp Seal Harvest entitled Improving Humane Practice in the Canadian Harp Seal Hunt (2005). This report provides a number of recommendations for improving the humaneness of the harvest. DFO is currently examining ways to implement these recommendations. The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture and DFO are currently updating a handbook for individuals taking part in the seal harvest. An instructional video has been made available to sealers focusing on the humane practices they must follow. Both government departments have a strong relationship with the sealing industry and continue to collaborate on issues.