The District of Sparwood will be making some changes to its animal control bylaw with ferrets likely being allowed as pets.
Ferrets have been classified under wild or exotic animals in the current bylaw, but domestic ferrets are not considered wildlife under provincial regulations.
It’s up to the individual municipality to decide if they are allowed.
Council gave their okay for the updated bylaw to include allowing ferrets, despite some reservations from Mayor David Wilks.
“I’m okay with dogs, I’m okay with cats and okay with hens. My fear would be that if Mr and Mrs Ferret got loose, Mr and Mrs Ferret probably wouldn’t want to come home again,” said Wilks.
“That would cause great grief for Mr and Mrs Ferret because they could have baby ferrets and we would have Ferretville. I have a challenge with it but the majority of council is good with it.”
The updated bylaw will also likely include changes to the farm animals section to ensure ducks, peacocks or turkeys can’t be kept as pets.
District staff said it’s due to the noise and possible wildlife conflicts.
Staff will develop the updated bylaw before it is brought back to council for their final say.
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