Responsible pet owners not only look after their pet’s health and wellness, they also make sure their pet is a positive addition to the community.

There are a few obligations you have as a pet owner to be considerate of your neighbours and protect your pet.

Get a Licence

All dogs six months or older must have a valid pet license and tags, so we can contact you if your pet gets lost. This even applies to indoor pets because they can slip out open windows or doors from time to time.

Getting a microchip or tattoo for your pet are also great ways to make sure we can contact you, but they are not a substitute for a licence.

Licences are affordable and available in person at City Hall.

Keep them Controlled

Dogs and cats are not allowed to be loose, unless they are on your property or in a designated off leash area.

Dogs must always be on a leash when on public property and should be contained in a secure yard or building when on your property. Dogs are not allowed on school grounds, sports fields, playgrounds, and golf courses.

Cats must be kept indoors or in a secure yard on your property. Allowing your cat to freely roam is dangerous for them and can lead to conflict with your neighbours.

Prevent Excessive Barking

Barking is natural for dogs when they are bored, lonely, or want to alert their owners of something, but excessive barking can disturb your neighbours.

Excessive barking can be addressed through dog training, socializing, exercising, and family interaction.

Scoop the Poop

Pet waste can be smelly, unattractive, and can even be a health issue for you and your pet. Carry a bag with you to pick-up your pet’s poop whenever you are off your property. Poop can be collected in a plastic bag and thrown in the garbage.

You do not need to clean up waste immediately on your private property, but you still need to clean it up regularly. Allowing excessive waste to build up affects your neighbours and pet negatively.

Spay or Neuter

While spaying or neutering is not required in Belleville, it is highly recommended.

“Fixing” your pet prevents the birth of unwanted animals, improves overall health, and reduces aggression in dogs.

Spayed and neutered pets are also significantly cheaper to licence.

Guide and Service Dogs

Owners of guide and service dogs are required to control excessive barking, use a leash, clean up waste, and get a pet licence.

However, the City waives licence fees for dogs that have been trained by a recognized agency to assist people with special needs.

Guide and service dogs are also allowed everywhere, including school grounds, City facilities, and on transit.

Guide and service dog use is regulated by the Ontario Ministry of Community & Social Services