Community advocate Angela McLean has voiced significant disappointment with the City of Regina's recently completed review of its animal bylaw, stating that the proposed amendments fall short of addressing the core issue of aggressive dogs in a proactive manner. McLean, who represents a group of concerned residents, had hoped for a more comprehensive approach to prevent dog bites before they occur.
Proposed Updates Rely on Reactive Measures
Administration's report, set to be discussed at the city council's executive committee meeting, outlines several suggested updates aimed at modernizing Regina's regulations on dogs. However, McLean points out that these suggestions primarily depend on incidents where people have already been bitten to trigger action. "In our view, they've failed to do a comprehensive review," said McLean. "These updates are not focusing on preventing issues, and that's what we were hoping for."
Key Statistics Highlight Growing Problem
According to city data, reports of roaming dogs have increased by 40 percent, and dog bites have risen by 20 percent since 2022. In response, council commissioned a review of The Animal Bylaw in January 2025, followed by an online public survey in the fall. Despite this, McLean argues the proposed measures do not adequately tackle the escalating public safety concerns.
Specific Amendments Under Consideration
The administration's report includes several key amendments designed to enhance enforcement. These proposals aim to:
- Allow the city to seek interim court orders declaring animals dangerous prior to hearings on attack incidents.
- Require dogs to be leashed at all times in public spaces.
- Mandate that owners identify themselves to animal control or bylaw officers when requested.
- Consider violations older than one year when calculating escalating fines.
- Enable judges to impose conditions on dangerous animals even if destruction orders are overturned on appeal.
- Increase base fines from $100 to $150 or $200, and maximum fines from $300 to $350 or $400.
The report states, "The goal of the changes is to stabilize the enforcement regime to ensure dangerous animals in the community can be managed effectively."
Advocate Calls for More Proactive Solutions
McLean plans to attend Wednesday's council meeting to urge the city to adopt more proactive measures. She emphasizes the need for special status for owners with repeat violations, a measure she believes could help prevent attacks like the one her young son experienced in 2024. "We all want the same thing," she said. "We all want safer neighbourhoods, and these amendments just are not cutting it."
Concerns Over Fine-Based Deterrence
While McLean supports aspects such as interim control orders and better tracking of dog bites, she remains skeptical about relying on fines as a primary deterrent. "You can't fine your way out of a public safety problem," she asserted, highlighting that financial penalties alone may not address the root causes of aggressive dog behavior.
The ongoing debate underscores the challenge of balancing enforcement with prevention in urban animal management, as Regina seeks to create safer communities amidst rising incidents.
