In response to a significant increase in the number of cases of dog bites reported in the past few months, Town of Mount Royal is launching a targeted awareness campaign for dog owners and the general public.
The Town reminds dog owners that it is their responsibility to ensure their pets behave appropriately. In Mount Royal, the Town's Public Security Department is responsible for enforcing regulations. Any violation of By-law No. 1340 or provincial regulations is subject to fines in addition to administrative fees.
Here are some essential reminders for dog owners:
Parks and public spaces: In public spaces, to avoid potentially dangerous situations, dogs must be under the control of someone capable of managing them at all times. For safety reasons, dogs are not allowed in parks, except in specifically designated areas, such as the Mohawk and Montgomery dog parks.
Wearing identification tags: Dogs must always wear identification tags and be registered with the local municipality. This ensures quick identification and contributes to the safety of everyone.
Leash-length regulations: Under the provincial act aimed at protecting individuals through dog regulations, leashes can be no longer than 1.85 metres.
Consequences for Dogs Declared Dangerous
By enforcing these regulations, the Town aims to ensure the safety of the public and prevent dog-bite incidents, which can have severe consequences for the animal and the owner. Note that provincial law stipulates that an incident may lead to a canine behavioral assessment (at the owner's expense), potentially resulting in the declaration of a dog as dangerous. Following this declaration, owners of declared potentially dangerous dogs may face much stricter care conditions in Mount Royal and across Quebec.
This is why the Town is seeking the full cooperation of dog owners in adopting responsible practices and helping ensure a harmonious coexistence between their pets and the entire community. If you suspect your dog may be prone to biting other animals or persons, you are responsible for taking all appropriate preventative measures.
For more information, please refer to the list of municipal by-laws and the Pets and Wild Animals section of the Town's website. You can also contact Public Security at any time at 514-734-4666 or by email at securitepublique@ville.mont-royal.qc.ca.