Look after your pets

Keep dogs on-leash, pick up their waste and get them licensed

Vaughan is home to many beautiful parks and trails that can be enjoyed by the whole family, including dogs! To make sure everyone using these public spaces has a great time, there are three things dog owners should know.

Keep your dog on a leash

When walking your dogs, always keep them on a leash, unless visiting a designated off-leash dog park. This will help keep your pets safe in the event you encounter urban wildlife – including coyotes. It is important to remember that not everyone is comfortable around dogs. Be considerate of others and keep your dog on a leash. The fine for having a dog off leash anywhere outside of an off-leash dog park is $200.

Pick up after them

Before heading out the door for a stroll, remember to bring waste bags to pick up after your dog. Not only is it the right thing to do, it’s also the law! By-laws are in place to keep the community safe and clean. As stated in the Animal Control By-law 066-2020 (PDF), you must pick up after your pets, whether on public or private property. The fine for failing to do so is $200. To report pet waste left in public spaces, call Service Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or email service@vaughan.ca.

License your pets with the City

Did you know that Fluffy and Fido need a licence? Dogs and cats in Vaughan must wear a City-issued licence or numbered tag on their collar at all times – including house cats! Dog and cat licences expire annually and must be renewed prior to the anniversary date of purchase to ensure your pet’s information is kept up to date. Existing registered owners will be notified at renewal time. Be sure to update your contact information if it changes before your renewal date. Failure to license your dog or cat every year may result in a fine of $300. If your pet gets lost, contact Vaughan Animal Services immediately at 905-832-2281.

You can also get a licence for your pet at the City’s Microchip and Rabies clinic on Sunday, June 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Vaughan Animal Shelter (located at 70 Tigi Crt., Unit 47). To book an appointment, call 905-832-2281. Walk-in appointments are not available.

The following services will be offered at the clinic:

• Microchip implant and registration ($25 per pet plus tax)
• A rabies vaccine, certificate and tag ($20 per pet plus tax)
• A City of Vaughan 2023 pet licence ($25 per pet)

For more information, visit vaughan.ca/AnimalServices.

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