October 27, 2023
The City of Edmonton Animal Care and Control Centre (ACCC) reminds dog owners of the importance of responsible pet ownership after a significant increase in dog attacks in Edmonton.
The number of dog attack complaints in Edmonton increased by 18 per cent in 2023 compared to the same period the previous year (596 complaints in 2023 compared to 507 in 2022). This is a 66 per cent increase in attacks since 2021 when there were 359 complaints from January to July.
Yesterday a provincial court judge handed down a fine of $10,000 to a dog owner whose dog was involved in multiple attacks in the community. Charges were laid under the City’s Animal Licensing and Control bylaw after repeated complaints and attacks. The fine issued is the maximum penalty allowed under the Bylaw.
“Dog owners have a responsibility to ensure that their animal is well-cared for, well-socialized and does not present a risk to public safety,” said John Wilson, Director of Animal Care and Control. “The fine in this case reinforces the owner’s responsibilities to ensure their animal’s safe and healthy integration in the community.”
There can be multiple reasons for attacks, including a lack of understanding of how to read behavioural signs and how to safely approach and engage with dogs.
Licensing pets is an important way to keep them safe and secure and support the community as a whole.
The City of Edmonton is renewing its
Animal Control and Licensing bylaw. The bylaw establishes a system of rules and definitions with respect to animals within the city and outlines fees and fines for infractions. A virtual public event on the Animal Control and Licensing bylaw renewal project takes place on November 2. The public can register to participate and share their voice at
engaged.edmonton.ca/animalbylaw.
