BANFF – A dog owner has been fined $300 after the off-leash animal attacked a mule deer in Banff.
Parks Canada officials issued the $300 fine under the Town of Banff's animal services bylaw for “harassment of wildlife” as the incident occurred within the municipal boundaries of the Town of Banff, according to Parks Canada emailed statement on Thursday (March 6).
In accordance with the Town’s animal services bylaw, the municipal enforcement department required the dog’s guardian to purchase a $500 vicious animal licence.
The Town of Banff was quick to act shortly after the incident, which was caught on a 40-second video clip that was circulated on social media site Reddit showing an off-leash dog attacking the mule deer outside the Moxy hotel on Banff Avenue the weekend of Feb. 22-23.
Jason Darrah, director of communications for the Town of Banff, said municipal enforcement staff made the determination in the same week of the incident, and in accordance with the animal services bylaw, took steps to enhance public safety by requiring the dog owner to agree to having the dog on leash or harness and muzzle the dog at all times in public and to obtain the special licence, which forms part of that agreement.
“The owners were immediately fully compliant, obtained the licence and paid the fee within three business days of being directed to do so,” he said.
The dog owner has not been fined previously.
Parks Canada said its law enforcement wardens worked closely with the Town of Banff’s municipal enforcement on the investigation, which is now complete. Parks Canada would not say what day the investigation wrapped up or when the fine was issued. A follow-up email requesting the public information was ignored.
“The current status of the deer involved is unknown,” according to the Parks Canada statement.
In Banff National Park, the law requires dogs are to be on-leash at all times.
In the video of the incident, the dog appears to be biting into the deer’s ear and grabbing it by an antler – and not letting go.
A woman tries to get the dog off the deer, and is knocked to the ground in the process. At one point, she grabs the deer by the antlers.
Parks Canada did not provide an interview, but directed residents and visitors its website to learn how to be a responsible park-user here: .
“By keeping pets leashed, we help ensure the safety of both wildlife and our furry companions,” according to the Parks Canada statement.
