Nova Scotia

Allow dogs on Halifax Transit ferries, councillor says

Coun. David Hendsbee plans to make a motion at Tuesday's meeting asking council to consider a staff report looking at the feasibility of permitting dogs on the Halifax Transit ferry service.

David Hendsbee's motion says HRM should accommodate needs of dog owners

A white man with a blue shirt, navy jacket and tie stands outside in a coastal area. Blue water is visible behind him
Coun. David Hendsbee says dogs should be allowed on the Halifax harbour ferries, so long as they're secure and cleaned up after. (Paul Palmeter/CBC)

A Halifax Regional Municipality councillor says dogs should be allowed on the harbour ferries.

David Hendsbee, who represents Preston-Chezzetcook-Eastern Shore, plans to make a motion at Tuesday's council meeting asking his fellow councillors to consider a staff report looking at the feasibility of permitting dogs on the Halifax Transit ferry service.

Hendsbee says in his motion that "residents have been discussing and requesting" the change from the current rules, which allow only service dogs.

"HRM is a pet friendly municipality and responsible pet owners may want to take their dogs with them," the motion reads. "HRM should accommodate that need."

Hendsbee's motion has two caveats:

  • Owners must have full control of the dogs with leashes, muzzles or carriers.
  • Any cleanup should a dog "relieve itself" would be done by the owner.

The motion also asks staff to look into the option of providing "a couple" of pet cage kennels.

The District 2 councillor could not immediately be reached for comment.