After its third reading at the City Council meeting on Monday, October 3, the new Animal Control Bylaw has been passed.

The strong focus of the bylaw is on responsible pet ownership which now includes cats.

Starting in January, all cats will need to be licensed with fees starting at $30 for cats who have not been spayed or neutered, and $15 for cats who have.

"Currently a cat that runs around the neighborhood and gets into other peoples gardens and that kind of thing, well that person does have the ability to call us, rent a trap from us, and then trap the cat," said Carrie Allen, Administrative Assistant for Municipal Enforcement.

The importance of licensing your cat ensures that if your cat is trapped that it can be returned to you.

The new bylaw includes a section on aggressive dogs that will now include a $250 fine, as well as educating owners on controlling their dogs.

"If your animal is on a leash then that is great, but if the leash is being held by a 10 year-old and the dog is still able to pull and jump on people that is a problem."

Another area of control that is being addressed is in dog parks. Allen said that there is now a limit of 6 dogs per person that can demonstrate that they are able to control every dog while in an off leash park.

Allen said that no matter the situation, Municipal Enforcement will be putting most of the emphasis on educating owners.