Take your pet to the park
You can bring your dog or other pet to most City parks, including Riverside Flats Park, Ambrel Lake Park, and the Tamsin River Trail System. You must keep your pet under control and clean up after it. If you do not pick up pet waste, you may be fined under Clean Yards By-law 2019-113.
Off-leash areas
Some parks allow dogs to run off-leash. The Hollis Park Off-Leash Area is a fenced space where dogs can exercise freely. Always check the posted signs at park entrances. If there is no sign, your pet must be on a leash no longer than two metres.
Pets inside recreation facilities
For health and safety reasons, pets are not allowed inside recreation buildings like the Tamsin Valley Leisure Centre, Northgate Aquatic Centre, or Westbrook Community Arena. Only certified service animals are permitted in these indoor spaces.
Service animals
A service animal is a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. The work or task must be directly related to the person's disability. Service animals are allowed in all public areas and recreation facilities. Staff can only ask two questions: (1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? and (2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform? Staff cannot ask about the person's disability or require documentation.
By-law enforcement
Wrenford enforces the Responsible Pet Ownership By-law 2018-063. Common violations include failing to pick up waste, allowing a dog to bark excessively (Noise By-law 2016-122), or not keeping a dog on a leash in required areas. Fines start at $150.00 for a first offence. Report loose or aggressive dogs to the Wrenford Police Service at 911 or by-law enforcement at 519-555-0100.
Tips for visiting parks with pets
- Bring water for your pet, especially in summer.
- Keep waste bags in your pocket or bag.
- Do not leave your pet unattended in a vehicle.
- Supervise your pet near Ambrel Lake and the Tamsin River to prevent drowning or contact with algae.