15/04/2021
There are many hazards to be aware of in order to protect your four legged family members. It is essential that you are aware of your surroundings when out with your dog and that you take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
1. Traffic - always keep your dog on a leash when near roadways to avoid unwanted injury.
2. Private Property - properties such as farm land and vacant lots may be hazardous. The Stray Animals Act of Alberta dictates that "The owner or the person in actual possession of livestock may kill a dog in the act pursuing, worrying or destroying that livestock on land owned or occupied by the owner." This means that if your dog is NOT on a leash and enters private property the owner of that property may put your dog down.
3. Wildlife - animals such as coyotes may attack for dominance reasons, porcupines may result in costly vet bills and skunks (no explanation needed!) may pose a threat to your dog.
4. Wildlife Control - landowners may be trying to control the coyote and skunk populations on their land by hiring an animal control specialist or by setting traps themselves. These traps may cause harm to your pet.
What does this mean for you and your dog?
If your dog is on the road or on private land you may be unaware of the hazards therefore it is essential that your dog be on a leash or stay on your property to ensure its safety.
We all love our pets. Keep them safe, keep them home.