Animal Control Officers are trained personnel appointed by the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) to enforce regulatory bylaws within their jurisdiction.
After January 1, 2022, Electoral Area D residents will notice BC Commissionaires vehicles and Animal Control Officers outfitted with appropriate identification and uniforms in their community.
Whereas Animal Protection Officers (SPCA) act for the safety of animals, Animal Control Officers are charged with the responsibility of protecting people by ensuring compliance with bylaws promoting the security and safety of domestic dogs.
Animal Control Officers do:
- Support and encourage responsible dog ownership. We maintain and operate a regional dog control shelter for lost or found dogs.
- Seek voluntary compliance and cooperation from owners during the investigative process;
- Respond to citizen complaints for a broad range of dog-related concerns, such as abandoned or roaming dogs, barking, or aggressive behavior;
- Typically give verbal or written warnings prior to issuance of tickets or impoundment, with the exceptions being serious injury to people or livestock.
Animal Control Officers do not:
- Have ticketing quotas, nor are they directed to generate revenue through ticketing;
- Earn commissions on any revenue generated by their enforcement actions;
- Impound a roaming dog without attempting to locate the owner;
- Deal with concerns relating to other domesticated animals or wildlife.