In Ontario, municipal bylaws play a crucial role in the governance of animal control, ensuring the safety and well-being of both residents and their pets. These bylaws address a range of issues, including pet licensing, leash laws, dog parks, kennel licensing and restrictions on certain breeds. Each municipality has the authority to implement specific regulations that respond to local needs and residents concerns. Because of this, the depth and quality of municipal bylaws vary greatly.
Through our experience there are a number of observations:
- Animals are a low priority overall and often Animal Control related responsibilities are greatly underfunded and carried out by individuals inexperienced in animal related areas
- The people tasked with creating the actual bylaws have no experience to guide them in making responsibly sound, specific and measurable bylaws that protect citizen and animals
- The application, review and approval process for individuals seeking a kennel license is heavily weighted toward the property vs the actual person looking to run the kennel. The criteria required of someone wishing to run an animal kennel whether for boarding, breeding or trainer is almost always vague and without thorough thought of what will provide the best atmosphere for the animals in their care.
For more information on local bylaws regarding animal control, please contact your municipal office or visit their official website.