The Town of Olds has been in touch with its residents about the regulation of dogs, after a dog was killed by three others in August.
About 79 per cent of town residents who participated in a recent survey said they feel the consequences/fines should increase, depending on the severity of damage inflicted by an animal.
Under the current bylaw, the penalty for a dog bite or an attack to another animal or person is $300. That fee is $500 the second time, $1,000 for a third incident and $1,500 for a fourth offence.
Four dogs were at large in August about five blocks from their home. Three of the large dogs attacked Jake, a springer spaniel, in his backyard, which led to his death.
There were no witnesses to the attack and it was not known how the dogs got out of their yard.
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Three pit bulls attack and kill a dog in his Olds backyard
As part of the public consultation, which has been ongoing since Jake’s death, the town put out a survey and held two information sessions Nov. 7 and 12.
The results of the survey show about 52 per cent of respondents do not believe the town’s bylaw should treat aggressive dogs the same as vicious dogs. Another 42 per cent answered they feel the two should be treated the same, and another seven per cent were unsure.
About 16 per cent of responders do not want the consequences or fines to go up depending on the severity of damage inflicted by an animal, and another five per cent were unsure.
The town asked if residents wanted the current town fee schedule to increase. Forty per cent of those who responded said it should be the same, another 31 per cent want to see an increase, about eight per cent want to see a decrease and 21 per cent were unsure.
About 60 per cent of responders do not believe commercial dog breeding operations should be allowed in residential areas. About 29 per cent of survey takers were in favour.
The maximum number of dogs allowed per home, excluding puppies, should be three, according to 38 per cent of respondents. Another 24 per cent believe that number to be two, and 22 per cent believe it to be four dogs.
Respondents support a lower licensing fees for dogs that have a microchip or tattoo registered with a veterinarian.
Council will look at recommendations from administration at its Dec. 3 meeting.
mamta.lulla@reddeeradvocate.com
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