Justice
June 6, 2014

Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Reminds Dog Owners of Wild Life Regulations

The Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division wishes to remind dog owners and the general public that it is illegal to allow a dog to roam in an area frequented by wildlife from April 1 to August 31 annually, unless in accordance with Sections 102 and 103 of the Wild Life Regulations. By allowing the dog to run freely, not only is the pet at risk of being injured or killed, but the dog owner may also be liable for any damage resulting from its actions.

Over the past few weeks, eight complaints were received of dogs running “at large” and harassing wildlife, and as a result, three charges were laid against individuals for breaching section 102 of the regulations. Most recently, on June 4, shortly after responding to a complaint of beagles chasing rabbits in the Jack’s Pond area near Brigus Junction, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement officers have charged an individual relating to that incident.

The public plays an important role in helping officials as they work to identify those who do not follow regulations with respect to wildlife. Reports can be made anonymously 24 hours a day, toll-free, by calling the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division at 1-877-820-0999 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Additional information regarding the policy of the Department of Environment and Conservation on dog training can be found at: www.env.gov.nl.ca/env/wildlife/dog_training_areas/index.html. 

To learn more about the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division, the work it does, and to make an anonymous report online, please visit www.stoppoaching.ca .

- 30 -

Media contact:
Luke Joyce
Director of Communications
Department of Justice
709-729-6985, 725-4165
lukejoyce@gov.nl.ca

2014 06 06                             11:35 a.m.