Animals in the City
*New: Animals in Nanaimo, such as dogs and livestock, are now regulated by the Animal Responsibility Bylaw. Learn some quick facts about the bylaw and information on related contacts by downloading the Animal Responsibility Bylaw Brochure.
In addition to the new bylaw, Council approved a Promise to Return Policy where seizure and impound fees will be waived until January 1, 2023 for any cat that is impounded in violation of Section 41 or 47 of the “Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316” subject to the cat being sterilized and having identification.
If you need a licence for your dog, see Getting a Dog Licence.
Nanaimo has a number of Off-Leash Dog Parks to enjoy.
Nanaimo Animal Control
Located at 1260 Nanaimo Lakes Road, the Nanaimo Animal Control officers enforce the Animal Control Bylaw as well as operate the Pound & Adoption Centre for the City of Nanaimo.
To report an incident occurring in the City of Nanaimo please call 250-616-0233. For after hours emergencies listen to the recorded message for instructions
For animal control in the Regional District of Nanaimo please call Coastal Animal Services at 1-888-754-1397
For more information regarding animals within the City of Nanaimo, please visit their website at Nanaimo Animal Control