The Township of Hamilton encourages responsible pet ownership and wildlife interacting. Find out more about how we keep people and animals safe.

Dog Licenses

Every dog living within the Township of Hamilton needs a current dog tag, every year. Dog tags are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase.

Dog licenses/tags can be purchased online through the Northumberland Humane Society's Docupet platform. Please click the link below to obtain a dog tag.

Obtain a Dog Tag

Docupet logo click through to webpage

Regulation of Dogs

By-law 2022-43 provides for the regulation, registration, keeping and licensing of dogs, and prohibits the running at large of dogs. It also prohibits cruelty to domestic animals within the Township and identifies the set fines for any infractions, including, but not limited to:

  • Own, possess, harbour a dog - no license: $100.00
  • Failure to produce rabies vaccination certificate: $100.00
  • Failure to clean up excrement: $100.00
  • Failure to muzzle or leash a dangerous dog: $150.00
  • Animal at large; failure to restrain a dog in public : $150.00
  • Failure to provide dog with basic necessities; provide adequate shelter: $250.00

To request a copy of By-law 2022-43, please contact the Clerk's Department.

Lost / Missing Dogs and Cats

The Township of Hamilton has retained the Northumberland Humane Society for the provision of animal care and enforcement in the Township.

To report a lost or missing dog or cat in the Township of Hamilton, please contact the Northumberland Humane Society by calling 905-885-4131.

Report an Issue with a Dog or Cat

For animal control issues involving dogs or cats only, please contact the Northumberland Humane Society for assistance.

The Ministry of Natural Resources or your nearest wildlife rehabilitation centre can provide assistance with wild animals.

Wild Animal Concerns

For issues involving wild animals, please visit the Ministry of Natural Resources Fact Sheet or contact your nearest wildlife rehabilitation centre.

Ontario Wildlife Damage Compensation Program (OWDCP)

The OWDCP, a program of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), provides financial assistance to owners whose livestock or poultry have been killed or injured due to wildlife predation or whose bee colonies or beehives or related equipment have been damaged by eligible wildlife.

For issues involving wildlife attacks on livestock or bees, please contact the Clerk's Department to start the claims process.