The Municipality of West Nipissing has seen a notable increase in dog-related complaints and by-law infractions during the months of June and July.
In response, all dog owners are reminded that responsible pet ownership helps keep our community safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone.
As a dog owner, you are responsible for:
- Licensing your dog as required by municipal by-laws.
- Always keeping your dog under control. Dogs are not permitted to run at large or roam onto neighbouring properties.
- Cleaning up after your dog. Please pick up and properly dispose of dog waste in public spaces and on private property.
- Preventing excessive barking or nuisance behavior that may disturb neighbours.
- Providing proper care, including adequate food, water, shelter, exercise, and current veterinary vaccine records.
- Ensuring your dog does not pose a threat to people, other animals, or property.
Responsible dog ownership is a shared commitment that helps maintain a safe and respectful community for all residents.
By-law Enforcement appreciates your cooperation and encourages residents to contact the Municipality if they have questions regarding dog ownership requirements or alternatively, access the West Nipissing Animal Control By-Law 2020/67 at www.westnipissing.ca/by-law/animal-control-dogs-and-cats/.
The following are common offences that are encountered as well as the potential related fines:
| ITEM | SHORT FORM WORDINGS | PROVISION CREATING OR DEFINING OFFENCE | SET FINES |
| 1 | Fail to register dog or cat | Sec. 3.1 | $105.00 |
| 2 | Fail to affix dog or cat tag | Sec. 3.3 | $105.00 |
| 8 | Fail to restrain dog, cat or domestic animal | Sec. 6.1 | $105.00 |
| 9 | Permit dog, cat or domestic animal to run at large on public property | Sec. 6.2 | $105.00 |
| 10 | Allow dog, cat or domestic animal to run at large in park | Sec. 6.7(a) | $105.00 |
| 11 | Allow dog, cat or domestic animal to enter beach/waterfront area, swimming area, etc. where prohibited by posted signage | Sec. 6.7(b) | $105.00 |
| 23 | Permit dog to persistently bark/howl | Sec. 7.3.1(a) | $105.00 |
Thank you for your cooperation with this matter. Together, let’s keep West Nipissing a safe and pet-friendly community.
Municipality of West Nipissing By-law Enforcement