In order to be more visible, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen has identified a vehicle as animal control.
The RDOS entered an agreement with South Okanagan Security Services Ltd. to provide animal control services within the area on Feb. 1, 2018. In order to be more visible, South Okanagan Security now has a vehicle with the animal control number advertised on it to make it easier to contact them.
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The animal control officer is patrolling RDOS areas educating people about the new bylaw and reminding all dog owners that their dog must be under their control at all times.
As a result of many complaints received about dogs being off-leash in public parks, this new bylaw requires that dogs must be on a leash, securely held by a competent person, when in a park unless the area has been designated by signage as an off-leash area. Dog owners are also reminded to carry disposable bags and pick up after their dog at all times. The new bylaw requires that all dog owners must carry bags and if one can’t be produced when asked by the animal control officer, a fine can be issued.
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Complaints to the RDOS animal control officer, including stray dogs, can by filed by calling 250-490-4113. The RDOS said they appreciate if people would hold onto a stray dog that they have called about until the officer is able to pick it up.