Pet Ownership in Kingston

Many families in Kingston own one or more pets. The most common household pets are dogs and cats but hamsters, gerbils, fish, rabbits, birds and certain reptiles are also popular.

It is against the law to keep livestock or poultry on city property except under certain circumstances. It is also against the law to own or import a Pit Bull Terrier dog into the province. (see Pet Importation)

Owners of dogs and cats are required to register or license their animals once a year with the city (see For More Information section below). Registered animals wear Pet Identification Tags that make it easier to identify them if they are lost or picked up by an animal control officer. Tags can be renewed online, by email or in person at city hall. You may be asked to provide proof that your pet has been neutered or spayed and also vaccinated against rabies.

Dogs and cats must be vaccinated for rabies once a year or at longer intervals depending on the vaccine. Animals are usually vaccinated against other diseases at the same time.

Cats are allowed to roam outdoors and do not have to be on a leash, but should not be allowed to trespass on other properties. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times except on their owner's property or on one of the city's four off-leash parks. The city has set aside four permanent areas called "Off-Leash Parks" where dog owners can take their dogs off a leash. Dog owners are expected to pick up and appropriately dispose of their pet's waste in all city neighbourhoods. Pet waste is classified as garbage and must be disposed of in garbage disposal containers. It cannot be placed in storm drains or in green bins.

When an animal is lost, animal control officers take it to the Kingston Humane Society. The Society runs a shelter for animals that are injured, lost or abused. It also has a pet adoption service that finds new homes for animals (see Animal Welfare).