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South Shuswap residents are no longer required to have their dogs licensed. 

This change comes with the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) set to run its dog control programs for Electoral Areas C, D, F, and G through bylaw enforcement, and limiting what they will be responding to. 

"Moving forward, CSRD will only be enforcing the aggressive and dangerous dog control provisions of its bylaws," explained the regional district in a June 23 news release.

To accommodate the transition, the CSRD is working to "enhance bylaw enforcement staff training and equipment, with a formal revision of the dog control bylaws coming this fall."

"The board believes this is the most cost-effective way to manage the short timeline and limited program resources, while ensuring the focus of the dog control program remains on protecting public safety," said the CSRD. 

Previously, the CSRD operated full-service dog control programs in only Electoral Areas C, D and G. This entailed receiving complaints for dogs running at large, stray or abandoned dogs, barking dogs, dogs that have attacked, injured or killed people or domestic animals. Electoral Area F's service was already limited to dangerous dog complaints.

Up until May 1, 2025, dog control services in the regional district were run by the Commissionaires BC. Earlier this year, however, Commissionaires BC opted to discontinue its contract, leaving the CSRD needing an option to provide dog control to those areas where the program is in place. 

With the transition, the CSRD said its dog licensing programs in Areas C, G, where licensing was required, and in Area F where it was optional, are now discontinued. No refunds will be issued for previously purchased licences.  

Moving forward, in electoral areas with dog control service, complaints for aggressive or dangerous dogs will continue to be reported through the  found on the of the CSRD鈥檚 website.

"Complaints will only be processed in cases involving a dog that has attempted to attack, or who has injured or killed a person or domestic animal," stressed the regional district.

In electoral areas without dog control service, issues with aggressive or dangerous dogs should be reported to the RCMP. Complaints about animal neglect or abuse can continue to be directed to the BC SPCA. 

The CSRD said it will provide more information as it becomes available.