 Presenting Rex in the City
A dog's guide to living in the city
Useful information on living in the city with your dog and some tips on responsible dog ownership.
Watch our public service announcements
* requires Windows Media Player
Listen to our radio ads
Responsible Dog Ownership
Bylaws pertaining to dog ownership have been updated. The Animal Control Bylaw was first drafted in the 1950s. There are now more than 50,000 dogs that live in the City of Vancouver!
Bylaw fines have been increased to reinforce responsible dog ownership behaviour. These changes were adopted to help deal with issues such as ensuring humane living conditions for dogs; dog owner responsibility and accountability; and controlling vicious dogs or unsafe dog behaviour.
For more information, click here.
1. Licence your dog
If you live in the City of Vancouver and have a dog that's older than three months, you need to get a licence. Not only is it a City by-law, it's protection for your pet. Those dogs who get lost and are not wearing a licence have a much more difficult time being reunited with their owners.
2. Pick up after your pet
Let's enjoy our parks and green spaces together! Pick up after your pet - not only is it is civilized and expected of you, it's required under the City's bylaws.
3. Use a leash
Well-trained dogs who respond to command can enjoy off-leash privileges in 31 parks scattered throughout Vancouver, during designated times. These sites are not exclusively for dogs and must be shared with all park users.
For a complete list of off-leash parks, visit vancouverparks.ca.
4. Choose the right dog
Dogs that are well looked after can live for 10 to 15 years. Think about your home and your capacity before you decide on getting a dog. Then choose a dog that matches your lifestyle.
Ever considered adopting? Many dogs rescued by the Animal Shelter come from abusive or unhappy situations. Adopting a dog can change a dog's life - and yours!
For suggestions on what kind of dog is right for you, and for listings of dogs available for adoption, click here or visit the shelter. The Animal Shelter, located at 1280 Raymur Avenue, is open for viewing Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
5. Treat your dog well
It takes more than food, water and exercise to keep a dog healthy. It also takes plenty of tender loving care and a good helping of common sense. For example, it is not a good idea to leave dogs in parked cars in the summer - temperatures can be punishingly hot within the confines of a car. Many dogs die of hyperthermia from being left in parked cars.
Regular check-ups at the veterinarian are and spaying or neutering your pet is also a good idea.
6. Teach your dog basic obedience
Well-trained dogs make for better behaved pets and a safer city. Training Rex in the City, Basic Obedience for Dogs, is available at the Animal Shelter and at City Hall at a cost of $5 plus GST. Or read it here.
Dog owners are encouraged to seek out other dog obedience courses, many available through local community centres or contact your veterinarian for knowledgeable obedience instructors in your area.
|
