New animal control bylaw in Three Rivers: a step toward responsible pet ownership

Why a new bylaw was necessary

Before the introduction of this bylaw, the town of Three Rivers operated under several different sets of regulations, which applied unevenly across the area. Previous bylaws were specific to Montague, Lower Montague, and Georgetown, leaving other areas like Brudenell, Cardigan, Lorne Valley, and Valleyfield without clear rules governing companion animals. This inconsistency led to difficulties in managing pet-related issues, as there were no uniform guidelines or enforcement mechanisms in place across the entire town.

Recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach, the town's administration, led by Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) John Jamieson, introduced the new bylaw. According to Jamieson, the bylaw not only standardizes the regulations across the entire town but also enables the local government to better understand and manage the population of companion animals. By requiring registration, the town can maintain accurate records of pets, which is crucial for responding to complaints and ensuring public safety.

Key provisions of the bylaw

One of the central requirements of the new bylaw is the mandatory registration of all dogs and cats within the town of Three Rivers. Pet owners are required to pay a one-time registration fee of $25. This fee is considered reasonable by the town administration and is not intended as a revenue-generating measure. Instead, the fee serves to formalize the process and ensure that all pets are accounted for within the town's jurisdiction.

In addition to pet registration, the bylaw also mandates the registration of kennel operations. Kennels must pay an annual fee of $25 to remain in compliance with the bylaw. This provision is particularly important for regulating larger-scale pet care operations and ensuring that they adhere to the town's standards for animal welfare.

The bylaw also includes a schedule of fines for non-compliance, although Jamieson noted that no fines have been levied so far. Instead, bylaw officers have focused on educating pet owners and resolving issues through discussion. In cases where pet owners were unaware of the new requirements, they have been informed of the need to register their animals, and compliance has been achieved without resorting to penalties.

Implementation and impact

Since its introduction in early July, the bylaw has already proven effective in addressing issues that previously went unresolved due to the lack of a unified regulatory framework. Complaints from residents in areas that were previously unregulated can now be addressed, ensuring a higher standard of animal care and community safety.

The bylaw's impact is not limited to enforcing rules; it also plays a significant role in promoting responsible pet ownership. By setting clear expectations for pet owners, the town aims to reduce incidents related to stray or unregistered animals and encourage a culture of accountability among residents. The registration process also helps the town plan for services related to animal care, such as veterinary clinics and shelters, by providing accurate data on the pet population.

Looking ahead, the town of Three Rivers is prepared to adapt the bylaw as necessary to align with forthcoming provincial legislation. The province of Prince Edward Island is currently developing a new Dog Owners Act, which may introduce additional requirements or standards. Jamieson has assured residents that the Three Rivers bylaw is flexible and can be amended to meet any new provincial regulations, ensuring that the town remains compliant and continues to prioritize the well-being of its residents and their pets.

The introduction of the new animal control bylaw in Three Rivers marks a significant step toward ensuring responsible pet ownership across the town. By standardizing regulations and requiring the registration of all dogs, cats, and kennels, the town has created a more consistent and enforceable framework for managing companion animals. This bylaw not only addresses immediate concerns but also sets the foundation for future improvements in animal welfare and community safety. As the town continues to refine its approach, residents can expect a more harmonious coexistence between people and pets, supported by clear rules and a commitment to responsible ownership.

source: CBC