The city is reminding dog owners to keep their trusty hounds and canine companions under control and on leash.
Allowing dogs to run at large within the City of Cranbrook boundaries is not allowed under the Animal Control Bylaw.
A rise in complaints from residents prompted the city to issue the reminder.
Naomi Humenny, bylaw services officer with the city, said it’s common for people to assume that their dog is harmless, but that doesn’t take into account the fear that some residents feel about them.
“Too many dog owners forget there are residents who are scared of dogs being off-leash, no matter how well-behaved the owner believes the dog to be,” Humenny said. “It is important to keep all dogs on leash when off private property as required in the bylaw.”
A dog running at large is defined as any dog on property other than that of the owner and not on a leash
A sterile, licensed dog would cost $25 rising to $150 per impound after three impounds; a non-sterile, licensed dog would cost $40 rising to $165 after three impounds. There is also the option of a $100 fine, if the dog is not impounded.
Non-licensed impound fees are an extra $25 on each impound fee.
Impound fees for vicious dogs start at $200 for first impound where deemed vicious, $500 for the second, $1,000 for the third and $2,000 for any additional impoundments.
Dangerous Dogs are $2,500.
The Animal Control Officer may impound any animal found to be running at large and will keep the animal impounded until it all impound fees and fines have been paid. The dog must also have a current license and attached tag from the City of Cranbrook.
Any complaints can be directed to the Bylaw Office at 250-489-9598.
To learn more about the Cranbrook’s Animal Control Bylaw, visit city’s website and and go to ‘Bylaws & Council Information’ under the City of Cranbrook Links.