Dog owners invited to RDCO meeting

Dear Editor;

Citizens who are interested in this community, are invited to hear the consultant Alan Welch speak about his review of the Animal Control Department in the RDCO, on Monday night, October 22, at 7 p.m.

Normally the RDCO will have their meetings at the regional district headquarters on KLO Road, but recognizing this is an important issue for many residents, they moved the location to Kelowna City Hall, where there are more seats.

This affects all residents – if you are a dog owner especially, or live in a neighbourhood where there are pets. I don’t have a dog, but this still affects me. I’ve been following the news regarding the issues surrounding the Animal Control Department, and while I am sure there are some really nice people there, I also know that there needs to be a lot of changes with regard to policy, and policy put in to action.

Can we teach these old dogs new tricks? I hope so. Having people who care about those they service is a vital component of their job description. Right now, from what I can see in the news, and even in the wording of the bylaws, they are an angry bunch who are more concerned with with confrontation, than compassion, and that needs to change. Most owners do not want trouble, and when trouble comes, they are affected just as deeply.

The meeting Monday evening at Kelowna City Hall will be interesting to see and hear, and be a part of. There is change in the wind, and thy name is RDCO Animal Control Department.

Laurie Washburn
Kelowna