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If the breed ban wasn’t enough, Montreal seems to be biting pet owners in the wallet when and wherever possible. Given the large numbers of requirements, laws, and fines, it seems like Montreal’s animal control could stand for a good yank on its leash. Still, animal owners, take note of all the laws and fines in effect. Also, since the offices to issue said permits will close on December 23 and reopen in January, you might want to head over and take care of business.

Cats, in particular, are the subject of a new law that started in October that insisted you keep your cat on your own property, or face a $500-750 fine. I don’t know who dreamed up this law, but the last time I told a cat what to do, it showed me its ass. Owners are also subject to a fine of $300-600 if the cats don’t have a permit. If there is a complain, an inspector can show up without a warrant and hit you with a fine.

Mrow.

 

While feral cats leave very few people warm hearted, their ability to de-rat and de-mouse (and unfortunately, de-bird) an area is very useful. We can expect a city-wide rodent boom well beyond the doors of city hall and its animal loathing regulators.

As for the dogs, head out to your borough office (Accès Montréal) and pick up your permit (list HERE). Dogs must be on a leash and must wear their tags at all times. Tags for 2017 start the day of purchase and are valid until December 31, 2017. Anyone purchasing their tag after January pays a $10 late fee. Dogs over 20 kg must wear a halter or harness and it must be attached to a leash no longer than 1.85 m.  People with more than three dogs need a special permit. Rules are even stricter for anyone with a “dangerous” dog. Montreal’s “dangerous” breeds are the American pit-bull terrier, the American Staffordshire terrier, the Staffordshire terrier, dogs crossbred with these breeds, or dogs that resemble these breeds. Or, not a surprise here, a dog that has bitten another animal or person. Owners of “dangerous” dogs must obtain a special permit, muzzle their dog, and keep their dog on a 1.25 meter leash (exceptions apply for being in a place with a 2m high fence), and must be over 18 years old.

Fines again are $300-600 for no tag, and if the dog further poses threats to safety by biting, being off-leash, or being without a muzzle, there’s another fine of $500-700. Spaying and neutering, as well as microchipping of all dogs is required by December 31, 2019.

 

Some of the fees if you register on time:

Cats

• Sterilized and Microchipped — $5
• Microchipped only — $25
• Sterilized only — $10
• Neither sterilized nor microchipped — $30

Dogs

• Sterilized  — $25
• Microchipped only — $55
• Non-sterilized — $60
• Ownership of a “dangerous dog” — $150
• Warning sign for dangerous dogs — $10
• Three dogs or more — $50
• Dog walkers — $100

Incidentally, Westmount permits do not count in Montreal. So, those on the borders or whose pets cross the borders, you’ll need to purchase a second license. The Westmount dog tags are notably more attractive.