Dog owners reminded that with ownership comes responsibility

With warmer weather approaching and people and their pets spending more time outdoors in public gathering places, Animal & Bylaw Services would like to remind all dog owners of the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw. The Bylaw, implemented in 2006, places the onus of animal behaviour on the owner.

 

“Aggressive animal behaviour will not be tolerated,” says Tracy Bertsch, Director of Animal & Bylaw Services. “All dogs can and may bite. A dog’s behaviour is determined by the training and leadership provided by the owner and the owner will be held responsible.”

 

The last four years have seen an increase in the number of reported dog bites. The increase is attributed to improved reporting by citizens as a result of enhanced public education efforts since 2009 and working more closely with partners such as the Calgary Police Service and Alberta Health Services EMS, which has raised awareness of dog bite incidents.

 

 “Calgarians clearly care about their communities and their pets,” says Bertsch. “We commend and encourage people to report all incidents of animal aggression. Everyone has the right to feel safe in public spaces where both people and pets are welcome. Animal & Bylaw Services will continue to be vigilant and immediately respond to all aggressive animal behaviour calls received.”

 

Citizens who witness an animal acting aggressively or running at large are encouraged to call 3-1-1. If there is imminent public risk or injuries are involved, call 9-1-1.

 

Owners of aggressive dogs are strongly encouraged to contact the Calgary Humane Society or a certified dog trainer to help resolve aggression issues.

 

For more information on reporting dog bites and dog safety, visit Calgary.ca.

 

 

Animal & Bylaw Services’ began categorizing levels of dog aggression in 2009 to better reflect severity of the incident. Levels 1 and 2 are incidents of dog aggression. Levels 3 to 6 are incidents of dog bites.

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