Reminder: Animal Control Regulations

Ensuring the safety, well-being, and harmonious coexistence of our community and its animals is a priority for the Municipality of Huron Shores. We would like to remind you of the important details regarding our Animal Control By-Law. Please take note of the following key regulations concerning the care and management of animals within our jurisdiction:

Key Regulations

1. Tethering Animals
   • Minimum tether length: 4 metres.
   • Ensure unrestricted and unobstructed movement.
   • Provide access to water, food, and shelter.
   • Secure tethering to prevent self-injury.
   • Tether must not allow the animal to leave the owner’s property.
   • Do not tether animals by tying anything directly around their neck.
2. Sanitary Conditions
   • Keep premises free from fecal accumulation, foul odours, insect infestation, rodent attractants, or any other unsanitary conditions.
3. Dog Registration
   • Register dogs with the Municipality and renew annually by March 1st.
   • Display the issued identification tag on the dog’s collar.
   • Report any changes in dog ownership or information within 14 days.
4. Leashing and At Large
   • Do not allow dogs to be at large within the Municipality.
   • Use a leash that does not exceed 2 metres in length.
   • Control the dog with a leash held or affixed to an individual.
   • Do not leave dogs unattended while tethered in public access areas.
   • Avoid using collars that restrict breathing or cause discomfort.
5. Impoundment
   • Officers may seize dogs found at large and impound them.
   • Impounded dogs are kept for a three-day redemption period.
   • Owners can redeem dogs by paying fees and ensuring proper registration.
6. Dangerous Dogs
   • Dangerous dogs must be muzzled and securely tethered or enclosed.
   • Display warning signs indicating the presence of a dangerous dog.
   • Notify the Municipality immediately of any changes related to the dangerous dog.
7. Dog Bites and Muzzling
   • Owners must prevent dogs from biting, attacking, or chasing individuals or animals.
   • Report dog bites to Algoma Public Health immediately.
8. Removal of Excrement
   • Owners must promptly remove any dog excrement from public or private property.
9. Number of Dogs Restricted
   • Maximum of four dogs per dwelling unit, with exceptions for certain premises like agricultural lands, licensed kennels, pet shops, pounds, veterinary facilities, and recognized animal shelters.
10. Animals in Vehicles
    • Ensure adequate ventilation and suitable weather conditions when animals are confined in vehicles.
    • Do not leave animals unattended in vehicles if conditions are unsafe.
    • Properly secure animals transported in or on vehicles.

Compliance Clauses

It is important to note that the Animal Control By-Law includes specific compliance clauses that require pet owners to adhere to these standards. Non-compliance can result in disciplinary action to ensure the safety and well-being of both the animals and the community.

Disciplinary Action

Failure to comply with the Animal Control By-Law may result in the following actions:

1. Notice of Violation: A formal notice will be issued to the pet owner outlining the specific areas of non-compliance.
2. Fines: Continued non-compliance may result in fines being imposed.
3. Seizure of Animals: In extreme cases, animals may be seized and impounded by animal control officers.

Your Cooperation is Appreciated

We appreciate the cooperation of all residents in adhering to the Animal Control By-law. By following these regulations, we can collectively ensure a safer and more pleasant community for everyone in Huron Shores, including our beloved pets.

For more information on the Animal Control By-Law or to report a non-compliance issue, please contact the Municipality of Huron Shores at 705-843-2033 or submit a complaint online.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

The Municipality of Huron Shores