Animal Control in Portage la Prairie: What You Need to Know

The City of Portage la Prairie is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of both residents and animals. Here's how animal control issues are addressed in our community:

Animal Control Services: Animal Control operates Monday to Friday, 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Officers respond to reports of animals running at large, aggressive behavior, attacks, and other concerns. If you encounter an animal-related emergency outside regular hours, you can call the after-hours line at 204-239-8326. A staff member will assess the situation and determine if a dispatch is required.

Why Reporting Matters: If you witness an animal at large, an attack, or other concerning behavior, please report it to Animal Control. Your complaint helps initiate enforcement, ensures proper documentation, and contributes to public safety. Officers collect evidence, maintain records, and prepare reports to support ongoing improvements.

Reviewing Our Processes: The City’s administration team is actively reviewing our bylaws and procedures to identify whether there are potential improvements that can be recommended to Council. This includes evaluating how complaints are handled and how enforcement is carried out.

Provincial Oversight: The Province of Manitoba enforces The Animal Care Act, which protects the welfare of domesticated animals. If you suspect neglect, abuse, or poor living conditions, contact the Animal Protection Officers (APOs) through the Province’s Animal Welfare Program. Learn more or file a report here: https://www.gov.mb.ca/.../anima.../animal-welfare/index.html

When to Contact the RCMP: The RCMP should be contacted when animal-related incidents involve potentially criminal behavior—such as threats, trespassing, physical harm to individuals, or animal cruelty. While Animal Control handles by-law enforcement, the RCMP addresses matters that fall under criminal law, including cases of intentional harm or neglect that may constitute criminal offenses under federal or provincial statutes.

Together, we can ensure a safe and compassionate community for all.