Animal Control Bylaw Update - Public Input

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 What’s changing:
Dog licences would move from an annual renewal system to a one-time lifetime licence, based on whether a dog is spayed or neutered.

Why this change:

• Fewer renewals and less paperwork
• Lower long-term cost for residents
• Better identification and return of lost dogs
• More efficient administration
   

Licences would still be required, but only issued once per dog.

 What’s changing:
Cat licensing would remain optional, rather than mandatory.

Why this matters:
Residents who choose to license their cats can benefit from identification services if a cat is lost, without creating a new requirement for all cat owners.

 What’s being clarified:

• Dogs must be on leash and under control on public property
   
• Dogs are not permitted in children’s playgrounds
   
• Dogs transported in open vehicles must be safely secured
   

These expectations largely reflect current practice but are clarified in the updated bylaw.

 What’s changing:
The number of dogs allowed before a kennel licence is required would increase:

• From more than 2 dogs to more than 3 dogs
   

This change reflects typical household situations while still addressing larger-scale dog keeping.

 What’s new:
The proposed bylaw formally allows up to four hens per property in residential zones, subject to conditions.

Key requirements include:

• No roosters
• Proper coop and run maintenance
• Odour and waste control
• Secure food storage
• No slaughtering within Village limits
   

This provides clarity where the existing bylaw is silent.

 What’s being added:
The bylaw would prohibit pigeon racing and similar bird-based sporting activities within Village limits.

What is still allowed:
Lawful falconry conducted under provincial and federal permits would continue to be permitted.

 What’s changing:
The impoundment system has been updated to:

• Reflect actual staff time and after-hours response costs
• Provide clearer, predictable fees
• Move away from escalating offence-count systems
   

The intent is cost recovery and clarity, not increased penalties.

 What’s improved:

• Clearer process for determining a dangerous dog
• Alignment with provincial court processes
• Option for voluntary surrender without additional fees
   

These changes improve transparency while maintaining public safety.