Ochapowace Nation enacts dog control bylaw after death

Ochapowace First Nation has implemented a temporary bylaw aimed at protecting community safety. Jacob Carr has the details.

On Monday, the Ochapowace Nation put a new temporary emergency dog control bylaw into effect.

The community released a document stating the new bylaw is for the safety and well being of community members; and that roaming dogs, and dogs travelling in packs pose a risk to public safety.

• Sask. RCMP discouraging vigilantism against animals after boy’s death on Ochapowace Nation

This comes after a 12-year-old boy was found dead on the First Nation in December, with some in the area at the time saying he might have been attacked by dogs.

That prompted the Saskatchewan RCMP to ask the public not to seek vigilante action against animals in the community.

The Mounties later confirmed the boy’s death not to be suspicious, saying weather or other elements may have played a factor.

• Sask. RCMP confirm boy’s death on Ochapowace Nation not suspicious in final update

The Saskatchewan Coroners Service is still working to determine the cause of death.

The new bylaw states that all dogs in the community must be secured, leashed, tied, fenced or kept indoors when not at their owner’s residence.

The bylaw also states that dog owners are fully responsible for their dog’s behaviour, and must ensure their dog does not threaten, chase, harass, or intimidate any person or animal.

The bylaw authorizes community peacekeepers to capture and secure roaming dogs and take necessary action to protect public safety, and that reasonable efforts to identify owners will be made.

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Dogs found roaming or in packs can be impounded, and if not claimed within 24 hours will be considered surrendered.

If incidents are repeated, further action can be taken, including removal of the dog from the community.

The First Nation said the bylaw reflects the community’s values of respect, responsibility and collective care, and that keeping dogs safe and controlled is part of looking after Nation members and maintaining peace in the community.