The PEI Dog Act is a key piece of legislation that helps guide how dog-related concerns are handled across the province. At the PEI Humane Society, Animal Protection Officers are responsible for responding to complaints under this Act, working to ensure both animal welfare and public safety are maintained in our communities.
Types of Dog Act Complaints
Complaints received under the Dog Act fall into several categories. Among the most common are:
- Dog bites
- Aggressive behaviour
- Dogs running at large (off-leash and unsupervised)
Each of these complaints is addressed according to the severity of the incident, with a focus on protecting both the public and the animals involved.
To give you an idea as to how Animal Protection generally addresses complaints related to the PEI Dog Act, take a look at the below flowchart. This chart only applies to complaints under the PEI Dog Act. This flowchart is not comprehensive, as each case is taken from an education-first approach and each case is treated individually.
What Happens After a Bite
When a dog bite is reported, Officers assess the nature of the incident. These are typically categorized as:
- Bites that break the skin
- Bites that do not break the skin
If a bite breaks the skin, the case is automatically referred to the PEI Department of Health. The department will contact the owner to determine the dog’s vaccination status, particularly for rabies. If the animal’s vaccination record is not current (or cannot be confirmed) the Department of Health may impose a mandatory quarantine period to monitor the dog’s health and prevent further risk.
Dogs at Large: Risk and Responsibility
Animal Protection also receives complaints about dogs found at large – roaming unsupervised off their property or outside of designated off-leash areas. While not all dogs at large pose an immediate risk, such incidents are taken seriously. In some parts of the Island, especially more densely populated areas, a loose dog can present a safety concern for pedestrians, other animals, or motorists. In these cases, Animal Protection Officers will follow up with the dog’s owner to address the issue and, where needed, issue warnings or summary offence tickets.
Aggression: It’s More Complicated Than It Looks
One of the most misunderstood types of complaint involves aggressive behaviour. While the public often views aggression as a black-and-white issue, Animal Protection Officers recognize that these cases are often far more nuanced.
Aggression can be triggered by a range of factors: stress, pain, fear, territoriality, or external stimuli. Rather than simply penalize owners for a first offence, Officers take the time to work with them to better understand the triggers, frequency, and severity of the behaviour. Based on their findings, Officers may recommend specific actions (muzzles, fencing, tethers, etc.), behavioural supports, or training, and when necessary, may take enforcement action.
A Collaborative Approach
Whether it’s a bite, a roaming dog, or a concern about aggression, Animal Protection Officers approach each situation with care, professionalism, and a commitment to safety. Collaboration with the Department of Health, dog owners, and the broader community ensures that concerns are addressed thoughtfully and in compliance with provincial regulations.
By reporting concerns and following responsible pet ownership practices, Islanders play an important role in helping keep our communities safe—for both people and animals.
To report concerns related to the PEI Dog Act, CLICK HERE