Ottawa sees increase in reports of dog bites and attacks
Ottawa Bylaw Services is looking at improving public education campaigns to inform the public about safety issues associated with vicious dogs, but staff say creating an online registry of dangerous dogs would require a full review of the Animal Care and Control Bylaw.
The city received 845 reports of dog bite/attacks in 2023, up from 715 in 2022, 654 in 2021 and 562 in 2020. Statistics for Ottawa’s Emergency Preparedness and Protective Services Committee shows Bylaw Services issued 268 charges and 115 dog muzzle orders in 2023, up from 201 charges and 70 muzzle orders in 2022.
- Sign up now for daily CTV News Ottawa newsletters
- The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App
Coun. Glen Gower asked city staff if the City of Ottawa could implement strategies to address serious dog bites and attacks like the City of Toronto. In March, Toronto City Council passed new measures to deal with dogs deemed dangerous, including an online registry of dogs with a dangerous order that outlines the first three digits of the postal code, the dog’s name, breed and colour.
“Bylaw and Regulatory Services has in recent years noted an increase in reports of dog-related issues generally, likely due to an increase in dog ownership during the pandemic, along with pandemic-related closure of parks and dog training facilities,” staff say in response to Gower’s inquiry.
“Consequently, many families who welcomed a new dog into their family lacked the necessary resources and support to train and socialize their pets, resulting in an increased incidence of problematic behaviour.”
Staff say amendments to the Animal Care and Control Bylaw would be required to follow Toronto’s steps to develop an online directory of dangerous dogs and post signs warning people of dangerous dogs in the neighbourhood.
A review of the bylaw would include public consultations.
In response to Gower’s inquiry, staff say the city has reviewed ways to improve existing public education efforts, including:
- Updated information on dog bites and attacks on the city’s website. The information provides information on pet registration, spaying/neutering, and new information about vicious dogs and what to do in a case of a dog bite or attack
- Bylaw Services is developing a new website outlining the requirements for a Muzzle Order appeal.
- Staff will conduct public education campaigns about vicious dogs and responsible dog ownership on social media channels.
“Bylaw and Regulatory Services will continue conducting patrols of parks and will take enforcement action as necessary,” staff say. “Officers will also continue responding to complaints about dog bites and violations of muzzle orders.”
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Washington mum on Canada's fresh allegations against India, expulsion of diplomats
American officials did not condemn India's response to explosive accusations that its government has been involved in an escalating number of violent crimes in Canada.
Man sentenced, ordered deported for killing woman, injuring 2 others in Surrey, B.C.
A Metro Vancouver man will spend up to four years in prison before he is deported after pleading guilty to a triple stabbing that left his sister-in-law dead and two others, including a two-year-old girl, seriously injured.
Thousands of cleaning supplies may contain substances linked to health problems
When you go through the chore of cleaning your home, you hope the end result is a safer, healthier environment for you and your loved ones. But some of the products you are using might put your health at risk.
Liberal MP endorses 'robust caucus discussion' about whether Trudeau should still lead the party
Amid mounting pressure from within the Liberal caucus for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to consider stepping down as party leader, Liberal MP Anthony Housefather says there should be 'robust' conversations on the topic.
Canadian soldier dies while off-duty in Latvia
Latvian State Police are investigating the death of Capt. Aaron Wideman, a Canadian soldier in the capital city of Riga.
Canada and U.S. list Samidoun as terrorist group, U.S. adds Canadian to terror list
Canada is listing the pro-Palestinian group Samidoun as a terrorist group, while the U.S. has added a Canadian citizen affiliated with the organization to its counter-terrorism list.
Jake E. Lee, former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist, expected to ‘fully recover’ after being shot ‘multiple times’
Rock guitarist Jake E. Lee, who’s played with heavy metal heavyweight Ozzy Osbourne, was hospitalized early Tuesday morning after he was shot “multiple times” in Las Vegas, a representative for the musician told CNN in a statement.
Food prices continue to outpace inflation in Canada
For the second straight month, grocery prices in Canada rose faster than the inflation rate, and beef in particular is significantly pricier than it was last year.
OPINION King Charles shrieked at shrink wrap and other things we didn't know about him
From his shrink wrap shock to his obsession with luxury, King Charles III's personal life seems to be filled with surprises, that’s according to a new book by biographer Tom Bower.