ecommendations regarding the City of Cape Town’s Draft Animal Keeping By-law.
From "Comment on the Draft Animal Keeping By-Law"
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As a responsible dog parent I believe stronger measures are needed to protect both animals and the public:
1. Dogs off-leash
Dogs should be kept on a leash in public areas unless they are in a designated off-leash area. Owners who ignore this requirement should be fined, with higher penalties for repeat offences. Even in off-leash areas, dogs should remain under effective control.
2. Dog attacks and uncontrolled dogs
Stronger action should be taken when a dog attacks another animal or person, particularly when the dog was roaming freely or had escaped from an inadequately secured property. Serious incidents and repeat offenders should be formally recorded, with appropriate measures such as mandatory leashing, muzzling or secure confinement.
I have personally experienced the consequences of an uncontrolled dog attacking my own dog, so I believe stronger prevention and enforcement could avoid considerable suffering for animals and distress for their owners.
3. Secure properties and vehicles
Owners should be responsible for ensuring that their dogs cannot escape through gates or inadequate fencing, or jump from vehicles and endanger other animals or people.
4. Dogs left alone while owners are away
I am also concerned about dogs being left alone for entire weekends or longer, with someone visiting only once or twice a day to provide food and water. Food and water alone should not constitute adequate care over several days. Owners should arrange appropriate supervision, whether through a responsible person staying with the animal, a pet sitter, suitable caregiver or boarding facility.
5. Effective enforcement
There should be a simple reporting process for roaming dogs, attacks and welfare concerns, with proper follow-up and stronger consequences for repeated violations.
6. Excessive barking, particularly at night
Owners should be responsible for preventing persistent or excessive barking, especially during nighttime hours. Dogs should not be left outside barking for prolonged periods while owners ignore the disturbance. There should be a clear complaint and enforcement process for repeated incidents, while recognising that occasional or reasonable barking is normal dog behaviour.
Thank you for considering my comments.
