What to Do If You Find Stray Livestock
Whether you own livestock, live in a rural area or are responsible for municipal oversight, it is important to know what to do in the case of stray livestock. Livestock running at large need to be managed quickly and safely to ensure they are not a risk to themselves, the public or environment.
The Stray Animals Guide can help livestock producers, municipalities and the public know what to do when farmed animals become strays.
The definition and process for dealing with stray livestock is legislated under The Animal Production Act (Act) and The Animal Production Regulations (regulations). These regulations define stray livestock as cattle, horses, bison, alpacas, llamas, sheep, goats, donkeys, ostriches, emus and hogs. They also apply to game farm animals, including fur farm animals and farmed wild boar licensed under the regulations. The regulations do not apply to stray pets, insects, poultry, fowl or wildlife.
The Act provides authority for municipalities to take action to deal with stray livestock, and the regulations set out provisions and processes for when livestock become stray. The steps taken by the municipality to address strays will depend on whether the owner is known and whether the animals are considered dangerous. Applicable fees are also outlined in the regulations; actual costs should be reasonable and supported with references and receipts where possible. Damages to property are not included in this legislation. However, they could be pursued through consultation with a lawyer.