Editor:
I have been loving, breeding, and showing standard poodles for almost 20 years now. I have worked very hard to develop a healthy line of dogs that I am proud of. I have done rescue work and re-homed many dogs over the years.
To do that, it’s hard to have just three dogs. I live rurally, and I’m concerned about the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary’s new animal bylaw (No. 1511) that will take effect soon if there isn’t more public input. They will affect many people in our area in an adverse way.
First off, I find the bylaw very vague. You would think an animal bylaw would contain something about the care and welfare of animals. Not one word about neglect or inhumane treatment, or how it can be determined or remedied. Animals in dire conditions need help right away, not years from now.
There will be a three-dog limit, even for folks living in certain rural areas, which means that people like me will not be able to have a litter of puppies or be able to board dogs for people who need this service. The reputable breeders I know are ethical, responsible pet owners.
I realize that there is always a chance of having a bad apple in the barrel, but I don’t see why the majority of us breeders, boarders, dog trainers, and even groomers should be restricted based on numbers. We bring revenue to the area, and much needed services.
In my mind, this rule should be based on proper care and the welfare of the animals. The district does not issue kennel licences at this point, and we no longer have an SPCA in town. We need more in-depth bylaws concerning our animals.
Did you know that if you go on vacation and your pet gets out, and picked up, it can be euthanized within five days? Let’s use some common sense to draft our bylaws.
There is a town hall meeting on Tuesday, March 19 regarding this at 7 p.m. Please attend.
Linda Southwick, Christina Lake