Animal Control
Do you have to license your dog in Hanover?
Yes, the RM of Hanover requires each dog owner to license their dog(s) in all areas of the Municipality. Dog owners are required to provide a current rabies vaccination for the dog(s) and to complete an application to receive a dog tag. All licenses are good for the life of the dog, and there are no yearly fees. Learn more about pets in Hanover.
How many animals can I have on my yard?
Depending on the zoning of your property, you are allowed a maximum of one Animal Unit per four acres of property without a conditional use or variance. If you own less than four acres of land or have an urban, commercial or manufacturing zoning on your property then you may not have any domestic animals on the property other than household pets as defined by the Animal Care and Control By-law.
Does the Animal Care and Control By-law restrict the number of dogs and cats that I can have on my property?
Yes, the Animal Care and Control By-law makes it illegal to have more than three dogs and more than three cats that are more than four months old on a property.
What if a person would like more than three dogs or operate a dog kennel?
They would be required to make an application for a Conditional Use Order (fee $250.00). This application requires approval from the RM of Hanover Council.
Do you sell dogs that don't get claimed at the pound?
We have at times adopted dogs that have not been claimed, but we prefer not to. If a dog is adopted through the pound, we insist that it is spay/neutered, has its rabies shots and is tattooed before it goes to the new owner.
What do you do with the dogs that are impounded?
About 23% of the dogs captured or turned in to the municipal pound keeper are returned to their owners. We place adoptable dogs with shelters or rescues where they are fully vetted before being adopted to new homes. If a dog has extreme health issues, shows signs of aggression or is unable to be placed in a shelter, it is humanely destroyed in a manner approved by provincial standards.