The City of Kamloops is putting out a call for dog owners to register their animals, noting the move — which is required under local bylaws — also provides a collective benefit to pooches across the city.

Richelle Cotter with the City says a portion of the annual fees owners pay — 30 dollars for a spayed or neutered animal, and 65 dollars for one which is not — goes to support areas where the dogs can get out and be active.

“In the last three years, I think, the McDonald Dog Park went in,” noted Cotter.  “So they can add more dog parks in the areas as our city is growing. And then they upgrade those dog parks as well.”

Beyond this, a registered dog which is found after going missing will be delivered directly back to their owner at no cost.

“Before they used to just bring the dog back to the impound, then you’d have to come pick up your dog,” said Cotter.  “But, if your dog is identified with a collar and a tag, then we can get your dog back to you right away. We will drive your dog back to you.”

There are around 8-thousand dogs registered in Kamloops, with the city noting there are a significant amount of animals which have not been registered.

Annual renewal e-notices from the City are in the process of going out to dog owners who have already registered.