Public safety enhanced in Leduc

Updates to the Animal Control and Licencing Bylaw have been made to provide the City with enforcement tools to enhance public safety and more immediate options when responding to situations in which a dog may endanger the public.

"We know the overwhelming majority of pet owners in Leduc diligently and lovingly take care of their family pets and work hard to help us maintain public safety," says City of Leduc Mayor Bob Young. "In the relatively few instances that dangerous situations occur involving dogs, these bylaw updates will provide the City with more options to respond quickly."

The updated bylaw, approved during a City Council meeting on Jan. 22, allows the City to: 

• Deem a dog 'restricted' prior to a conviction; this classification requires the dog to be cared for in a more secure manner; and
• Seize and impound a dog involved in a serious attack for up to 21 days for the purposes of a behavioural assessment to allow for immediate protection of the public while the matter is investigated and charges are prepared. 

It also provides an appeal process for residents should their dog be classified as restricted. 

The changes reflect evolving best practices and are similar to bylaw provisions in neighbouring municipalities. 

Responsible and considerate pet ownership is critical to ensuring a safe, peaceful and healthy community for everyone. All pet owners in Leduc are required to do their part and take the necessary steps to ensure they and their pets comply with the bylaw requirements.