Dog kennel gets OK from RDOS
A decision by the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen has gone to the dogs.
RDOS directors approved on Thursday the operation of an accessory kennel on property located at 2027 Carmi Rd., close to the RDOS and city boundary.
Applicants Donna, Eric and Jamie Jensen proposed a 90-square-metre kennel which can accommodate a maximum of 15 dogs. The climate-controlled and soundproof building will be located behind the existing dwelling and “as far away from the neighbours” as possible. The four-hectare property is located near the intersection of Carmi Road and Joy Road.
“This project is widely supported by people outside of the neighbourhood, but there is strong objection from within the neighbourhood because of expectation of excessive dog barking,” said director Tom Siddon who represents Area D where the kennel will be located.
“The young lady who came (to a public hearing) had extensive skills in managing kennels and multiple dogs and other species. Well over 150 people signed a petition in support of this kennel operation, largely reflective on the number of people who own dogs and who go away and need a place to put them. The number of immediate neighbours opposing the kennel was 20 rather than 150.”
Siddon also referenced the BC-SPCA building. The facility which houses dogs and other animals is located on Dartmouth Drive, near a residential area.
Petitions both pro and con were presented to the board and a public hearing was held on Aug. 9, which attracted 16 members of the public.
Director George Bush said he lived across the street from a kennel in Keremeos for 15 years and noise was never an issue.
“People don’t want dogs barking after a certain hour and that can be controlled,” Bush said. “Noise is a problem during the day . . . but so are my neighbours. It is a business and it has to be treated and controlled like any other business.”
Board chair Karla Kozakevich said the RDOS has noise bylaws and anyone concerned may notify bylaw.
Kozakevich said previously there were two kennels in Naramata (one has since gone out of business) and noise complaints were never made to RDOS bylaw enforcement.