Photo: RDOS

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen is rolling out its new watch dog.

For the first time, an animal control vehicle will now be on patrol the region — operated by South Okanagan Security, the company contracted by the RDOS to carry out animal control services.

The animal control officer in the vehicle will be educating the public about the region's new dog control bylaw, the RDOS said. The cruiser also has the animal control phone number displayed to make it easier for residents to contact the department.

A new bylaw for dog control was adopted in October of last year for seven of the eight rural areas, excluding area H.

"As a result of many complaints received about dogs being off leash in our public parks, this new bylaw requires that dogs must be on a leash, securely held by a competent person when in any park, unless the area has been designated by signage as an off-leash area," the RDOS stated.

Dog owners are also advised to carry disposable bags and always pick up after their dog. The regional district said a fine could be issued if dog owners don't have a disposable bag when asked by an officer.

Also, those who come across stray dogs are asked by the regional district to stay with the animal until an officer is able to pick them up.