The City of Dauphin has approved a new animal control bylaw. The new bylaw was passed because the old one had been passed in 1984 and Deputy City Manager, Renee Sigurdson says it was time for an update to the bylaw.
“Our previous one was outdated with language and we have updated our new bylaw to reflect our new practices. We also added changes that came from public feedback, as well as guidance from other municipalities, as animal control bylaws are standard throughout all municipalities, so we also reviewed to see what others were doing.”
Sigurdson says the major changes to the bylaw emphasize responsible pet ownership.
Pets are required to be on a leash when outside, except for at the off-leash dog park between 1st Ave SE and the horse race track on the Dauphin Rec Services ground. Leashes are to be no longer than 6 feet.
Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets on property other than the pet owners. Owners are also responsible for ensuring dogs do not bark or howl in a way that unreasonably disturbs the quiet or peace of others.
In addition, while pets and owners alike enjoy the new summer heat, no animal should be left outside for an extended period if your pet is likely to cause a disturbance. All animals that are housed outdoors within the City limits must have an all-weather shelter, adequate water, and food supply.
All cats and dogs must be licensed, so the City can ensure that residents stick to the limit of 2 dogs and 2 cats per household. The annual licensing fee is 20 dollars for every spayed or neutered cat or dog, while it’s 30 dollars annually for cats and dogs that aren’t spayed or neutered.
Any person moving to the City and owns more than two dogs or cats prior to the move may continue ownership of the animals after getting approval from the Animal Control Officer.
For owners of pets that aren’t dogs or cats, licensing is required.
The owner shall not allow the pet outside of their property unless the owner or a competent person is in control of the pet at all times. An owner shall not refuse the Animal Control Officer the right to see and inspect any domestic pet or animal the Animal Control Officer.
Click here to take a look at the full Animal Control Bylaw.
