The majority of complaints received relate to dogs at large, defecating in places that they shouldn’t, owners not picking up after their dogs, and concerns about dogs showing aggression. Complainants are concerned about their safety and the safety of their family (including their dog) and have asked for stricter regulations and fines for owners of dogs they feel are “dangerous”. This term is used often even though the dog has not been declared as “dangerous” as required under the Community Charter. Administration, if directed to prepare a new Dog Bylaw, proposes to introduce “vicious dog” as well as clarify an aggressive dog and introduce steps to effectively deal with each type: aggressive, vicious and dangerous. Should Area Directors wish to continue to regulate other animals, such as livestock, farm animals, cats or rabbits, RDOS does have the option of incorporating regulations into zoning bylaws.

Staff recommending that a “dog” only bylaw be constructed eliminating cats and livestock – as the number of complaints minimal.

Dangerous and vicious dogs – better definitions, wording and procedures needed to handle reported problems.

This discussion next week at the Penticton Board table.