Written By Jan Sims
MIDDLESEX CENTRE - A new animal control bylaw is set to take effect in Middlesex Centre. At its July 3rd meeting, council voted in favour of a number of new provisions to the bylaw.
“The proposed updates to this by-law will allow staff to proceed with enforcement more efficiently with the goal of reducing time and costs spent in the court system. This will be most noticeable with respect to responding to dog bites and the current requirements for court appearances when these occur,” according to a staff report brought to council.
The updates include a transition from regulations focusing on dogs and cats to a full animal control bylaw. As well it includes enhanced inspection authority and administrative powers.” It is much legally stronger and enforcement focused,” according to the report.
Penalties have also been increased. Allowing a dangerous dog to bite someone can now result in a fine of 1-thousand dollars. Smaller fines include failing to keep a dog tag license fixed on an animal which is set at $100 and failing to provide a dog with adequate shelter which could result in a $300 fine.
The new bylaw also includes a list of exotic animals that people are prohibited from owning.
The report concludes that by dealing with issues and avoiding the court system, it could result in significant cost savings to the municipality.
Another change involves an owner’s right to appeal to the municipality if a dog is deemed to be vicious.
When the issue came before council, several questions were raised. Councillor Wayne Shipley asked what is the definition of a dangerous dog? He was told that depends on the situation and involves the discretion of the enforcement officer.
Councillor Jean Coles wanted to know if the bylaw goes far enough in deterring dangerous dogs. The response was that it’s not covered directly in the bylaw, but could be dealt with in the courts.
