Dog owners need to recognise they are responsible for their dog’s behaviour and ensure their dogs are fenced in while at home and on a leash while they are being walked, says Regional Director Howard Houle.

Houle was responding Friday to a rash of reports “in the last few months” about problems with dogs on Gabriola. “Presently Malaspina Drive, Horseshoe Road, and Stephens Road have been problem hot spots”, Houle said.  “In some cases people have been bitten. In all cases people have been afraid and concerned for their safety, and justifiably so”.

“As a dog owner it is your responsibility to keep your dog healthy, happy, and safe”, Houle said. “If your dog gets into trouble while it is running free and not on a leash, you are responsible as you did not keep your  dog safe”.

In cases “where public safety is in question”, a dog could be “deemed vicious, and if they bite someone again, the dog could  be euthanised”, Houle said. He called on all dog owners “to do the right thing and when you walk your dog in public places please use a leash. It could save your dog’s life”.

Coastal Animal Services have been contracted to deal with stray and aggressive dogs in the Regional District of Nanaimo. They may be reached at 250-754-1397.