Golden pet owners will soon have to follow new rules after town council approved a Responsible Pet Ownership and Animal Control Bylaw at its March 3 meeting.
The bylaw was created using research from similar communities, advice from legal experts, leaders from BC SPCA and municipal animal controls. The town also issued an online survey, which received more than 840 responses, to ensure public feedback was heard and incorporated.
Mayor Ron Oszust said the town is committed to ensuring community safety and said the new bylaw will help support that goal.
“The Town of Golden is committed to working with residents to make sure pets, their owners and neighbours are safe and can enjoy Golden and all it has to offer. This new bylaw provides clearer guidance as the community grows and evolves, and strengthens staff’s ability to address concerns, support responsible pet ownership and maintain community well-being.” said Oszust.
The following are the key changes and reminders for pet owners.
Leash rules: Dogs must be on a leash at all times unless they are in one of the seven designated off-leash areas or a park that allows it with seasonal restrictions. Check out the new off leash map here.
Dog licensing: Dogs must be licensed every year by February 1 to avoid higher fees.
Updated animal care standards: clearer rules for pet care, animal impoundment, and shelter regulations that align with BC SPCA.
Aggressive dog rules: Definitions and procedures have been updated to better deal with incidents involving aggressive dogs.
Backyard hens and ducks: New guidelines are in place for backyard keeping of hens or ducks, and residents must register their hens and ducks. The towns guide and free registration can be found at golden.ca/hens or at Town Hall.
Residents can read the full bylaw at golden.ca/pets or contact Golden’s bylaw department for more information. The town said it will also provide education and community events during the first year to help residents understand the new rules.
