City of Iqaluit looks for input on new dog owner by-law

A loose dog runs down an Iqaluit street is this undated photo. The city of Iqaluit will host a public meeting Nov. 13 to hear input on its new Responsible Dog Owner by-law. (FILE PHOTO)

The City of Iqaluit will host a public meeting tonight (Nov. 13) to discuss its new Responsible Dog Owner Bylaw with residents.

The city tabled the new by-law this past July, which is mean to clarify dog owners’ responsibilities.

The by-law also aims to give bylaw officers firm guidelines on how to prosecute negligent owners and how to deal with animals that are threatening, mistreated or uncared for.

A series of recent incidents where dogs have attacked people in Iqaluit spurred the city to tackle the problem, including an incident where a young mother suffered 100 puncture wounds from a dog attack just outside her front door.

Following the attack, Annabella Piugattuk called for a territory-wide ban on pit bulls.

But rather than focus on problem dogs in the community, municipal enforcement authorities say careless pet owners are the root cause of growing complaints against loose and aggressive dogs.

The purpose of the Nov. 13 meeting is to gather input from citizens, groups and organizations and to hear any concerns related to the proposed new by-law.

The meeting will be held at St. Jude’s Parish Hall from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

People who are unable to attend the meeting in person can also provide a written submission to city council, in person or via email to info@city.iqaluit.nu.ca.