If you own a dog in Golden, or even if you don’t, and want to learn more about the new Responsible Pet Ownership & Animal Control Bylaw, join Town of Golden staff and local animal experts on June 23, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Golden Dog Park for a free community information session!
“We’re excited to engage with the community and talk about responsible pet ownership in Golden,” said Carrie White, Manager of Corporate Services. “Having local animal experts on hand gives residents the opportunity to ask questions, learn more, and get reliable guidance for caring for their pets.”
At the session, residents can learn more about the Town’s new Responsible Pet Ownership & Animal Control bylaw (Bylaw No. 1510). Town Staff and animal experts from Little Mittens Animal Rescue will be set up with informational materials and will be happy to answer questions and provide information.
Some topics addressed in the new bylaw include:
- On-and-off-leash areas:
- Unless you are in a designated off-leash area, including parks with seasonal restrictions, dogs must be on leash in the community at all times.
- There are five designated off-leash areas and two off-leash trail areas.
- In off-leash areas, owners are expected to use effective hand/voice control, and respect other dogs and owners. If your dog doesn’t have recall, it shouldn’t be off leash.
- Updates to align with BC SPCA best practices.
- Revised definitions and procedures to effectively address designation and incidents with aggressive dogs.
At 6:45 p.m., local certified animal trainers Cindy Peacock and Emma Garson will offer a free training session to teach dogs and their owners loose leash walking and attention skills. To ensure a safe and effective experience, participation is limited to 16 spots on a first-come, first-served basis. Register now by emailing bylaw@golden.ca – you must have a valid dog licence number to save your spot!
Residents are encouraged to review the full bylaw and guidelines available at www.golden.ca/pets or by contacting the bylaw department at bylaw@golden.ca or by calling 250-344-2271 ext. 234
Below are some tips for being a responsible dog owner in Golden:
- Licence your dog! Licences are required by the Town and could be your dog’s ticket back home if they sneak out or wander off. Licensing your dog with the Town of Golden can cost as little as $20 a year!
- Don't let your dog run loose! Keep an eye on your dog, use effective hand/voice control, and respect other dogs and owners. Please make sure you are familiar with the on-leash areas of town. Check out the map at www.golden.ca/pets
- Scoop that poop! Always carry pet waste bags when walking your dog. Don’t worry, if you forget there are free dogwaste bags available around town and along the Rotary Trail.
For more information:
Alysha Saville
Director of Corporate Services & Communications
P: 250-272-4574
E: communications@golden.ca