Huron County OPP is urging residents to take responsible pet ownership seriously after a series of troubling incidents involving aggressive dogs across multiple communities.
Police say recent months have seen numerous calls in Goderich, Bluewater, Central Huron, and South Huron, with some cases resulting in pedestrians being bitten, pets injured or killed, and even officers harmed while responding to these situations.
Authorities are reminding owners that they are legally accountable for their animals. The Dog Owners’ Liability Act outlines provincial rules for dog ownership, while more severe incidents may fall under the Criminal Code. Additional requirements are set out in each municipality’s animal-control by-laws.
Residents who encounter dangerous or aggressive animals, or witness behaviour that could put the public at risk, are encouraged to report it to OPP at 1-888-310-1122.