Reminder: Dogs must be on leash in Port Coquitlam
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The Editor,
Re. “Keep your dogs on leash – for everyone’s safety” (Letters, The Tri-City News, Oct. 14).
While well-intentioned, Karen Curtis’ letter gives the impression that from time to time, dogs should be allowed off-leash. This is not okay. It is illegal in Port Coquitlam and I think this needs to be clarified.
For those irresponsible dog owners who believe it is their right to let their dogs run loose, I suggest they go to the city of PoCo website and check out the animal control bylaw. It clearly states that “Every owner of a dog shall prevent the dog from being or running at large.” “At large” is defined as “the dog is not secured on a leash to its owner while off the property of the owner.”
The bylaw also states that anyone can seize an “at-large” dog and turn it over to the pound, which could result in some pretty severe consequences for owner and the dog.
While we’re at it, let’s mention poop. Picking it up is also required by law and there’s just too much of it being left behind for others to contend with.
Perhaps it’s time for the city to start testing dog owners on their knowledge of the bylaw before issuing dog licences.
Don Walters, Port Coquitlam
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