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For many people, their pets are like family. Because of the nature of pets, however, they are regulated. Municipalities may have several laws in place relating to pets and other animals. This is to help ensure they do not become a nuisance in the neighbourhood or a danger to the community. It is important to note that there may be different laws for different types of pets.
The province has given municipalities the majority of the power to regulate pets. They do this by enacting bylaws. The type of regulation can vary greatly depending on the type of municipality. For example, rural municipalities bylaws will differ from those of urban municipalities.
Municipalities can pass bylaws that require animals to be licensed. Some classes of animals may cost more to licence than others. Fees may also vary depending on the sex of the animal. It may cost you more to licence an animal that has not been neutered or who has not been vaccinated against rabies, for example.
Municipalities may also pass laws that require animals to be properly restrained and not run-at-large. There may be restrictions on the number of animals that may be kept. Many municipalities have so-called "pooper scooper" laws that require owners to clean up after their pets. Your municipality may also have a law that deals with dogs creating a nuisance by howling or barking.
Owners of domestic animals must take reasonable steps to prevent their animal causing injury. Owners may be liable for any damages caused by their animal. Municipalities deal with dangerous dogs and set out the process for declaring a dog or other animal to be dangerous.
If an animal is found to be dangerous, their owner may be ordered to:
A judge could also order that the animal be destroyed. Punishment for your animal attacking someone can include fines and even imprisonment. Not following a dangerous animal order can result in further penalties. You could also be sued for injuries caused by your animal.
Sometimes, people choose to keep wild animals as pets. Owners of wild animals will be liable for any injury or damage caused by them. The Government of Saskatchewan limits the types of animals that can be kept as pets. For example, you cannot have a monkey as a pet anywhere in the province.
Municipalities can also prohibit people from keeping certain animals. For example, the City of Saskatoon further limits what animals may be kept within city limits, including:
The Animal Protection Act aims to prevent cruelty to animals and gives approved humane societies certain powers. Animals that are found in distress may be taken away from their owners to receive proper care. This could include food, shelter or medical attention. The owner of the animal may be required to pay any related expenses before the animal will be returned. If an owner cannot be found, or if the owner fails to pay the expenses, the animal may be sold or given to another person.
Individuals charged with an offence under the Act could face a fine of up to $25,000, two years in jail, or both. Owners who willfully neglect their animals may also be charged with a criminal offence.
To find out more about the specific laws that are in place in your area, contact your municipal council. Your local humane society or veterinary clinic may also have additional information.
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