Frequently Asked Questions

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 Control By-law.

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.

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 no yearly fees. 

Dog License Application

On occasion, unclaimed dogs may be made available for adoption; however, our primary goal is always to reunite animals with their owners whenever possible. Any dog adopted through the pound must be spayed or neutered, vaccinated against rabies, and permanently identified through tattooing before being released to its new owner.

Approximately 23% of dogs captured or surrendered to the municipal pound are reunited with their owners. Dogs that are suitable for adoption are transferred to animal shelters or rescue organizations, where they receive appropriate veterinary care and assessments before being placed in new homes.

In cases where a dog has severe medical conditions, poses a significant safety risk due to aggressive behaviour, or cannot be appropriately placed with a shelter or rescue organization, humane euthanasia may be considered in accordance with provincial regulations and accepted animal welfare standards.