What's Happening in Mississauga, ON…

The public in Mississauga is reminded that new bylaws regarding pets have now come into effect. Most of them deal with the protection and housing of dogs in outdoor situations, vehicles, or on a tether.

Pets must not be kept outdoors in extreme weather, except for certain breeds that can withstand the cold. These dogs must still have access to an adequate form of shelter, such as a doghouse, which must be large enough for the animal to stand up, turn around and stretch out fully. It must be well insulated, and have dry bedding and a flap over the doorway to keep out the cold. There must also be an adequate source of shade, aside of the doghouse, for use during the summer months.

Dogs may not be tethered for more than four hours each day, and the leash must be at least three meters long, and food, water, shade, and shelter must be within reach. If the dog is in an outdoor pen, it needs to be an appropriate size, within view of the owner, and have access to food, water, shade, and shelter.

There are also bylaws regarding leaving pets in vehicles in hot weather, and requiring owners to provide adequate medical care for their animal friends.

These new bylaws need to be communicated to the public, and brochure printers can produce pamphlets that do this. They can list the new measures, and also where to go for further information.