Niagara-area township updates animal control bylaw, says some prohibited pets can be kept

While it’s unlikely that anyone in West Lincoln, a Niagara-area township, is keeping an elephant or alligator in their home, a newly-updated animal control bylaw sets out what kind of animals can be kept and what others are strictly prohibited.

On July 17, the township, in partnership with the Niagara SPCA and Humane Society, passed its updated Animal Care and Control bylaw, replacing the former Dog Control bylaw.

The new bylaw lists prohibited animals that cannot be kept permanently or temporarily (although some exemptions might apply).

The prohibited animals include wild dogs (such as wolves and coyotes), wild cats (lions, tigers, jaguars, etc), marsupials (kangaroos and opossums), primates (monkeys and apes), elephants, bears, raccoons, skunks, weasels, badgers, otters, seals, owls, hawks, eagles, anteaters, bats, alligators, crocodiles and venomous or very large snakes, lizards and spiders.

While bear ownership is uncommon, it’s plausible that some exotic animal enthusiasts might have snakes–such as some species of python–measuring three metres (the cut-off for allowable pet ownership). But while the new bylaw might prohibit snake enthusiasts from purchasing more pets, those who have a prohibited animal can keep it.

“Prohibited animals listed in “Schedule B” of the new bylaw that were lawfully kept within the municipal boundaries of the Township of West Lincoln prior to July 17, 2023, are grandfathered in and may therefore be kept for the duration of the animal’s life provided they register them with the Township by October 15, 2023 (90 days after the passing of the by-law),” the township said in a news release.

Anyone with a prohibited animal can fill out an online form to register their pet.

The bylaw also requires residents to provide their pets with proper care, including a clean and sanitary environment and adequate food, water and shelter. The bylaw also states that animals should not be tethered unless the rope is at least four metres long and allows the animal to roam freely and access food and water. The tether cannot be attached to a moveable object or a choke chain or pronged collar.

Dogs must be registered yearly, with a fee paid to the township.

The bylaw states that the township reserves the right to capture loose or stray dogs and “impound” them until their owner is found. The owner might be responsible for costs related to veterinary care should their dog need medical treatment while impounded.

The township also said the new bylaw allows West Lincoln officials to address escaping livestock and introduces some updates to kennel licensing.

Residents can visit the Animal Care and Control webpage to learn more.