30/07/2025
⚠ Please do not pick up stray dogs within the County of St. Paul. ⚠
The County has recently received several calls from people who have picked up a stray dog from the side of the road within our municipal boundaries. While we appreciate the care and compassion being shown, doing so can potentially open yourself and the dog to a host of dangers.
Factors to consider if you are thinking of picking up a stray:
❌ You should not approach a dog if you do not know its temperament.
❌ If the dog is injured, it may lash out and bite you.
❌ If the dog has any infections or diseases, they may also harm you and/or your family.
❌ If the dog is from the area, you may cause undue stress by taking it away from its known environment and holding it captive.
❌ If the dog is from the area, you may disrupt its daily needs, such as access to medication and special dietary requirements.
Please also consider that picking up dogs from roadways or other areas without due process is Theft and can be charged under Section 322 of the Criminal Code of Canada. Additionally, animal cruelty, if proven, has charges under Sections 444 to 447 of the Criminal Code of Canada, depending on the circumstances.
So if you notice a stray dog in the County, what can you do instead?
✅ The best course of action is to leave them be. Often, they are close to home and will make their way back.
✅ If the dog looks to be causing mischief, please call County Bylaw at 780-646-6806 so we can investigate. If the dog is within one of the Town's boundaries, call their respective Bylaw: St. Paul, 780-645-4522 or Elk Point, 780-724-3810.
✅ If the dog looks in distress or injured, please call the St. Paul Animal Shelter at 780-645-2262.
