How well do you know your bylaw?

Earlier this week I was contacted by the CBC, to comment on the recent fine a local woman had received, after leaving her dog tied up outside a store while she went inside.  The reason this story made headlines, is that it seems to have taken the Vancouver dog community by complete surprise!

Left outside a downtown bar for over 5hr, while her owner drank and played Trivia. Sept 2011.

Local bylaw states that if a dog is on the street or other public place, it must be on leash, and under the "immediate charge and control" of the handler.  A number of dog being tied-up outside stores are under socialized, and bark, lunge or snap at other dogs and passersby if felt threatened.  Even if your dog is well behaved when left alone, dog-napping is on the increase, with many small breeds being stolen in Vancouver and sold for cash!

If you're popping out on errands and can't take your dog in-store with you, do the best thing - leave them at home.

Think you're up to speed with the local bylaw?

Pop Quiz:  Animal Control By-Law No. 9150

1.  At what age must you register a new puppy?
          a)  The breeder/rescue group is responsible for it.
          b)  3 months old
          c)  6 months old
          d)  It's not a requirement, unless I want to use him/her for breeding.

2.  When out on public streets, what is the maximum length your leash is allowed to be?
          a)  4ft
          b)  6ft
          c)  8ft
          d)  I don't have to use one.

3.  How many dogs are you allowed to keep at any one time?
          a)  3 dogs, no weight restrictions
          b)  2 dogs, over 150lbs
          c)  4 dogs, under 25lbs
          d)  Whatever my building manager allows.

4.  When a female dog is in heat, what precautions should you take when at an off-leash park?
          a)  Keep her on leash, and warn all the other owners,
          b)  Have her wear a pair of "puppy panties" - it will act as a chastity belt!
          c)  Avoid off-leash parks, keep her on leash at all times.
          d)  She has to be confine during her heat, only quick pee breaks.

5.  It is an offense to tether a dog to a fixed object if it is wearing a choke collar.
          a)  True
          b)  False

                                                                    Answers: 1-B, 2-C, 3-A, 4-D, 5-A

For more information on local bylaw, please visit City of Vancouver Animal Control.

For more dog training info: OFF TRACK's Offical Home Page, or call 604 307 8144.