By Lexi McFarlane, Times Chronicle

The Town of Osoyoos has approved an updated Animal Care and Control bylaw that will provide clearer rules and navigation for pet owners living in or visiting the town. 

The updated bylaw was brought forward at Tuesday’s Regular Council Meeting, for a first, second and third reading. It follows a survey issued by the Town of Osoyoos in February, seeking public input on animals, particularly dogs, in Osoyoos’s public parks. Deputy Corporate Officer Amy Robinson presented the report to Council.

The survey sought the public’s opinions on the proposed bylaw revisions, which would see dogs permitted in Osoyoos parks during the “peak season” months of June, July and August. Current rules do not allow dogs during those months, creating confusion for both visitors and seasonal residents.

A total of 325 respondents engaged with the survey, with nearly all of them being Osoyoos residents, and 194 of them being dog owners. A total of 235 respondents were in favour of allowing dogs in parks during peak season, and the report notes that such a rule change would benefit families looking to be more active without having to leave their dogs at home.

The new bylaw presented to Council would, in addition to permitting dogs in parks, allow them on pathways, promenades, and grassy areas, as well as specific dog-friendly swim locations, which would be indicated with signage.

Clearer definitions of “nuisance dogs” and “non-resident dogs” would also be included in the new bylaw. A “nuisance dog” would be a dog that is “at large”, and not necessarily ending up at the pound more than twice in a 12-month period. A “non-resident” dog refers to a dog that wanders into Osoyoos from the surrounding Regional District of Okanagan and Similkameen area.

It was noted that there were still concerns brought up by some residents, surrounding owners that would not pick up after their dogs or leash them, as well as general discomfort around dogs. 

These concerns would be addressed as best as possible by Town Staff, the report states. In response to a separate question about signage by Councillor Zach Poturica, Robinson also said that there would be better guidance and enforcement on the Town’s part.

“With Bylaw being more in the parks this summer, we are going to be giving out more education on where you can take your dog for a swim, or where they can be in the park,” Robinson said. 

Mayor Sue McKortoff said that having this updated bylaw would keep things more in line across the board, since special events have had different rules.

“When we’ve had events down in the park such as Cherry Fiesta, we’ve always allowed people to bring their dogs, but of course they have to be on a leash,” McKortoff said. “This is really saying that, at all times, people can bring their dogs in with the same rules.”

The updated bylaw was passed unanimously by Council and will replace the previous Animal Care and Control Bylaw, which will be repealed.