Answers to some frequently asked questions relating to the Animal Control Bylaw No. 1 - 1991, can be found in the City of Swift Current's Animal & Pest Control Pamphlet.
Dog Tags – Every Dog Needs One
All dogs over the age of 6 months are required to have a Dog Tag.
The Dog Tag should be worn on the collar at all times. The Tag will help in locating owners of lost dogs in a timely manner and keep the dog from spending a large amount of time away from home.
The cost for the Tag is based on the following:
$ 28.00 Total Cost Of Tag
$ 13.00 Less If spayed/neutered
$ 3.00 Less If vaccinated for rabies
$ 12.00 Cost of Tag After Deductions
Application Forms for Dog Tags are available from the Customer Service Representative in the Finance Department or on the web site.
Barking
Every year a number of complaints are received regarding barking dogs. It is the responsibility of the dog owner to ensure that your dog does not bark, howl or otherwise disturb any person.
Should a complaint be received by the Bylaw Enforcement Division, a complaint form is forwarded to the Dog Catcher, who will make a personal visit to the dog owner. The dog owner will be given a written warning that a complaint has been received. Should the Dog Catcher have to return to the home a second time, the dog owner is subject to a $50.00 fine.
There are many methods that can be used to help control a barking dog. The following are some suggestions. You can also contact your Veterinarian or go to the local library for books on the topic.
- Put your pet in a private part of your yard away from distracting noises. This may include the building of a dog run along a quiet section of your yard.
- Enroll your pet in obedience classes.
- Purchase or rent devices through pet stores or veterinarians which have been designed to stop nuisance barking.
To Leash or Not to Leash?
Leashed pets are more easily controlled, and are therefore less likely to behave aggressively towards passers-by or frighten individuals who may be intimidated by unfamiliar animals.
All dog owners are required to keep their dog on a leash not exceeding two (2) meters and under proper control when off of their private property.
BITING PREVENTION INFORMATION
How to Approach a Dog Safely
Stand and let the dog approach you.
Ask the guardian if the dog is safe to pet.
Lift your hand slowly to greet the dog.
The first place to pet a dog is under the chin.
Do not move quickly or reach over the dog's head to pet her.
How to Act Around a Stray Dog
Do not pet or approach a dog you do not know.
Stand still (Stand like a Tree!).
Let the dog sniff you.
Do not stare at the dog. Dogs view this as threatening behaviour. Turn your head to the side.
Do not turn your back and run or scream. Try to remain calm.
If the dog is barking or growling, slowly walk away, backwards or sideways, keeping the dog in view.
If the dog bites or jumps on you, lie face down and cover the back of your neck (Lie Like a Log!).
Be as still and quiet as possible.
Things to Remember with Dogs (and All Animals)
Ask permission before petting someone else's dog.
Leave mother animals and their young alone.
Do not try to pet dogs that are tied up, sleeping, eating, behind fences or in vehicles.
Do not chase or tease dogs, or pull their ears or tails.
Do not grab their food, bones or toys.
Children should not try to stop a fight between animals.
Always act kindly and gently. Animals have feelings too.
Remember that cats can bite and scratch unexpectedly.
Leave wild animals alone.
Other Reasons Dogs May Bite
Cornering, crowding or standing over a dog, particularly a small one, may make it feel defensive. Children should stand back and never put their faces close to a dog's mouth. The face is the most common site of serious dog bite injuries.
Staring directly at a dog's eyes is considered to be a challenge by the dog.
Stray dogs may be dangerous. Any dog that is loose may be lost, frightened or injuried - and more likely to bite.
Sick or injuried dogs may be afraid or irritable and should be avoided by children.
Elderly dogs may have impaired vision, hearing, or be more sensitive to touch which can cause them to be more easily startled.
Some dogs are inadequately socialized.
A dog that is excited or nervous can bite by mistake. Children should be taught not to play fight, tease, yell at, or chase dogs or other animals.
Dogs can feel left out, especially when a new baby or pet joins the household. Give a dog extra love and attention at these times.
What Happens if My Dog is Impounded?
Should a dog be found running at large within the City limits. The Dog Catcher will impound the animal.
The City Pound is located at the local SPCA , 2101 Knight Crescent.
If the dog has a Dog Tag, the owner will be notified that the dog has been impounded and is waiting to be picked up. However, if the dog does not have a specific owner, the animal is kept for 72 hours, at which time it may be adopted out to a new family or held by the SPCA for an indefinite time frame before euthanasia takes place.
Impoundment Fees are as follows:
$55.00 for the first offence, plus $6.00/day housing charge
$80.00 for the second offence, plus $6.00/day housing charge
CATS
Cat owners are responsible to keep their cat under control at all times. Also, all cats over the age of 6 months are required to have a Cat Tag.
As with a Dog Tag, the Cat Tag should be worn on the collar at all times. The Tag will help in locating owners of lost cats in a timely manner and keep the cat from spending a large amount of time away from home.
The cost for the Cat Tag is based on the following:
$ 10.00 Total Cost Of Cat Tag
$ 5.00 Less If spayed/neutered
$ 5.00 Cost of Cat Tag After Deductions
Application Forms for Cat Tags are available from the Customer Service Representative in the Finance Department or on the web site.
The City Bylaw Enforcement Division does not have a person responsible for the catching of cats. A resident may come to the Engineering Department and rent a Cat Trap for $20.00 which is refunded once the trap is returned.
The person renting the trap must sign an agreement that the trap will be checked every hour, that it will not be set in extreme temperatures and the animal will be cared for and pacified until such time as it can be taken to the SPCA for impoundment.
