Owning a pet is often a lifetime commitment; now city bylaw services want to make licensing a part of that pledge.
Animal and bylaw services director Bill Bruce said his department is exploring lifetime licensing as a means to cut costs and streamline the process for the city and for owners.
Bruce said a common reason for pet owners not renewing licences is simply forgetting.
“So if we figured out a way to give that licence for life, we would eliminate all those (renewal) costs, which would put more dollars directed towards animals in the community. And also it would provide some convenience and some savings for licence holders,” he said.
The licence would be available for dogs under 12 months, and an adjusted rate for dogs under five. Bruce expects the cost to be at a discount to the current $31 annual fee for canines.
Although her eight-year-old Maremma Sheepdog, Shep, wouldn’t qualify, dog owner Angela MacIsaac believes it’s a great idea, especially if she were to get a future pet.
“I tend to forget my renewal and then I end up getting a call from the city,” said MacIsaac.
“This is extra insurance that your dog is licensed and safe in case it gets lost or wanders off.”
