Although pets can be a delight to their owners, they can also be a cause of conflict among neighbours. In order to ensure that pet owners respect other residents, the rules for caring and keeping animals are very clear.
There are a few obligations you have as a pet owner to be considerate of your neighbours and protect your pet.
Who let the dogs out?
Dogs are not allowed to be loose unless they are on your property or in a designated off-leash area like Steppler Park.
Dogs must always be on a leash of 2 metres (6 feet) in length or less when fully extended when off your property and should be contained in a secure yard or building when on your property. Dogs are not allowed on school grounds, sports fields, playgrounds and golf courses. The fine for violating this bylaw is $150.
Scoop the poop
Carry a bag with you to pick up your pet’s waste whenever you are away from home. You don’t need to clean up waste immediately on your own property, but you do need to clean it up regularly. Allowing excessive waste to build up negatively affects your neighbours and your pet.
Licensing of dogs
The owner of every dog over the age of four months must have a valid pet licence and tags so we can contact you if your pet gets lost. This even applies to indoor pets as they can easily slip out of open windows or doors.
The maximum number of pets allowed per residence is 2 cats and 2 dogs.
Microchipping and tattooing your pet are also good ways to make sure we can reach you, but they are not a substitute for a licence.
Prevent Excessive Barking
Barking is natural for dogs when they are bored, lonely or want to alert their owners of something. However, excessive barking can disturb and upset your neighbours.
Make sure your dog is a good neighbour by addressing excessive barking through dog training, socializing, exercising and family interaction.
Muzzle Up Your Pup!
Identified animals must be kept in a fully fenced yard and wear a muzzle at all times when in a public space. “Identified animals” means any breed that has been identified by various jurisdictions across Canada that may require special consideration. Failure to meet and maintain identified animal conditions can result in a fine of $150 up to $300.
IDENTIFIED ANIMALS:
Staffordshire Bull-Terrier
- Canadian Kennel Club standard
- American Kennel Club standardAmerican Staffordshire Terrier
- Canadian Kennel Club standard
- American Kennel Club standardAmerican Pit Bull Terrier
- United Kennel Club standard
For any animal control related questions, including licensing requirements and the purchase of dog tags, please contact Bylaw Services at 204-822-2562
Want to adopt a dog or a cat? Please contact Pembina Valley Humane Society.
For more in-depth information, please read the ANIMAL CONTROL BY-LAW 20170626 (17BL09)
