Vaughan considers new service for wildlife in distress
City responds to the need to help sick
or injured animals
The health and safety of everyone living in this community – including pets and wildlife – is a priority for the City of Vaughan. As this City continues its fast-paced growth, there is a growing need to address concerns related to resident interactions with sick or injured wildlife.
The health and safety of everyone living in this community – including pets and wildlife – is a priority for the City of Vaughan. As this City continues its fast-paced growth, there is a growing need to address concerns related to resident interactions with sick or injured wildlife.
At today’s
Committee of the Whole meeting, Members of Council were presented with a
recommendation to provide enhanced wildlife service in Vaughan through an
in-house solution.
The proposed in-house service includes:
- offering 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week response to calls
- hiring two part-time animal control officers
- purchasing an additional animal control vehicle
- establishing a wildlife intake and holding area in the current animal shelter
This solution would also enhance the existing animal services delivery
model and allow for expanded hours of operation for domestic dog and cat
services. Healthy wild animals that cause a nuisance will continue to be the
responsibility of the property owner.
After today’s meeting, the report will go to the June 28 Council
meeting for consideration. If approved, the service will begin on Sept. 1, 2016,
which corresponds with the date York Regional Police will no longer respond to routine
calls about sick or injured animals. This will ensure continuity in this
service for residents.
Vaughan
Animal Services currently provides sheltering, adoption and animal control
services for domestic dogs and cats as well as education about how to
effectively co-exist with local wildlife. Vaughan also provides animal services
to the Township of King and the Town of Stouffville. The Vaughan Animal
Services shelter is located at 70 Tigi Crt. For more information about animal services, please call Access Vaughan
at 905-832-2281 or visit vaughan.ca/animals.