Royal Roads University is making sure its domesticated four-legged visitors stay on leash.
Starting Feb. 1, the Capital Regional District’s bylaw and animal care services will begin regular patrols on the Colwood campus to ensure dogs are on leashes.
CRD officers will engage with visitors promoting awareness and education regarding the on-leash rule and if enforcement is required, will issue fines starting at $100.
The university said the goal of the patrols is to protect the safety of people and dogs visiting campus as well as wildlife – including migratory bird populations, cougars and other wildlife that frequents the area.
“We love welcoming dogs and their humans to campus where they can enjoy the beautiful grounds and spend time in nature,” said Ron Granados, director of operations at Royal Roads, in a release. “The small act of leashing your pet provides huge benefits. It helps to keep them safe from area wildlife and ensures our feathered friends continue to have safe access to the region.”
He added the university continues to welcome their visits but dogs must be on-leash for the safety of all campus users.
Mark Groulx, CRD chief bylaw officer, noted “our primary objective will be reminding visitors to keep their dogs on leash for the duration of their visit to ensure everyone has a ‘pawsitive’ experience.”