The Township of Brock said it is experiencing an increase in incidents related to aggressive dog behaviour and dogs otherwise at large.
The township reminded dog owners of their responsibility to keep their dog(s) from running at large under the Animal Control By-Law Number 2446-2012-PP as amended. Unleashed dogs are considered to be at large even in the presence of their owner and all dogs must be leashed while on any public property within the Township of Brock at all times.
The following are the set fines for the following violations under the bylaw:
- Section 3 (3) – Allow dog or cat to run at large $200
- Section 9 – Allow dog to interfere with person, animal or object $200
The Province of Ontario has enacted strict liability requirements on dog owners under the Dog Owners Liability Act (DOLA). Section 2 (1) of the Act states “The owner of a dog is liable for damages resulting from a bite or attack by the dog on another person or domestic animal.”
The Dog Owners Liability Act also provides for offences under the Act. Section 18 (1) of the Act states “An individual who contravenes any provision of this Act or the regulations or who contravenes an order made under this Act or the regulations is guilty of an offence and liable, on conviction, to a fine of not more than $10,000 or to imprisonment for a term of not more than six months, or both.”
The township said all reported incidents will be investigated and dealt with as provided for under the Township of Brock Animal Control By-Law Number 2446-2012-PP and/or the Dog Owners Liability Act where applicable.