Be A Responsible Pet Owner

Pet owners have a responsibility under the Animal Control Regulation By-Law to ensure the wellbeing of both pets and City residents. There are many things you can do to keep your pets safe and ensure the City of St. John’s is a safe and enjoyable place for all City residents.

Stay Clear of Sports Fields

Please remember that pets are not allowed in city sports fields. For a great place to let your pets play, visit one of our nine dog parks. 

Stoop and Scoop

If your pet does its business on any property other than your own, you must clean up after them immediately. This shows respect for your neighbours and our shared public spaces. Many of our public parks have dog poop bag dispensers, but please remember to carry your own bags and dispose of them in the nearest garbage can. Let’s work together to keep our public spaces clean.

Off Leash Off Property

Animals are not permitted to run at large. If your dog is off your property, they are required to be on a leash unless in a designated off leash dog park. City public spaces are for all residents to enjoy and not everyone is comfortable with dogs, regardless of their size. Walking your dog on a leash is for the safety of you, your pet, and other residents and animals. 

Animals in Vehicles

If you are traveling with your pet in your vehicle, they must be properly secured. When not secured properly, pets can create a distraction for the driver and this can be dangerous for the animals, the driver and others on the road. All pets should be secured in the back seat or in the hatch of the vehicle. During warmer months it is very important to not leave your pet unattended in a hot car. Cars can heat up significantly in a short amount of time even in moderate summer temperatures and cracking a window does not significantly impact the inside temperature.

Your pet’s safety and the safety of all City residents is important to us. We have more tips on how to keep your pet safe under pet owner responsibilities.