Hello Valemount:
To say I am disappointed in Council’s decision to omit cats from animal control and only respond to “dangerous and loose dogs” is an understatement. Administrative choices like these have a profound impact on community and animal welfare. If Mr. Robinson could provide his research, I am sure many besides myself would like to review it. I cringed when I read “make due with less.”
Animal Control is about educating, mediating, assisting, and providing opportunities for resolution. If someone calls and says, “my dog is lost, can you please contact me if found,” it’s a request officers like to get. It facilitates reuniting dog and owner and it provides an opportunity for open dialogue between both parties.
The benefits of bylaws and animal control go beyond what administrators believe. It is a documented fact that family violence can first present itself through animal abuse. Bylaw officers can notify local law enforcement when responding to animal complaints such as barking dogs, neglect, should signs of abuse be present.
Bylaw Officers/Animal Control are often the first contact point that can help achieve compliance and diffuse a situation before it escalates to an RCMP call. I am sure local law enforcement will appreciate increased needs for neighborly disputes regarding barking dogs and cats defecating in gardens. I would rather have RCMP working on calls that keep our community and highways safe.
Residents, please take a moment and research the impact these decisions make for your municipality. Voice your opinion, regardless if you support Council’s decision or not. In closing, I would like to say that I agree with one statement that Mr. Robinson stated, “Pets are the responsibility of the pet owners.” True. If I may ask, what is the responsibility the Village has to its residents?
Chris Dolbec
