Animal Services

Animal Rules and Regulations

Our animal bylaws are designed to ensure the safety of everyone in Woodstock and their pets. The following are summaries of various Woodstock animal bylaws.

Dog Licensing

Pet owners are to obtain their own tag with owner contact information clearly displayed or a microchip for their dog.

Dog Parks

Looking for somewhere to play with your dog? Dog parks are a great place for your furry friend to run around off-leash and socialize with other dogs.

Urban Wildlife

Learn how to prevent conflicts with urban wildlife, including geese, crows, and coyotes, and why feeding animals can create health and safety issues.

Animal Control

Animal control in the City of Woodstock is contracted to Hillside Kennels. Hillside Kennels can be reached at 519-469-3247. Cell phone information is provided on their voicemail if they are not at the kennel.

If your pet is lost or you're considering adopting an animal, contact Hillside Kennels.

Please note that all animal welfare calls must be directed to the provincial Animal Welfare Services team. Call 1-833-9-ANIMAL (264625) if an animal is in distress or being neglected. This includes animals that are injured, in pain, sick, suffering or abused, or lack proper care, water, food or shelter. More information can be found at Ontario's Animal Welfare page.

Pick-up of Animals

Animal control will pick up dogs and injured wildlife, excluding birds.
Dogs running at large will not be picked up unless the animal:
Is in a confined area or tied up
Appears to be vicious or dangerous

Animals on Private Property

Homeowners are responsible for removal of:

Deceased animals located on your property
Nuisance wildlife (i.e. raccoons, skunks etc.) from private property 
Wild animal found indoors (e.g., a squirrel in your attic)

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