Pets come in all species and sizes.
Though dogs and cats make up the majority of commonplace pets, other critters such as bunnies, birds, and mice are also popular among pet owners.
However, not all animals can be kept as legal pets.
Locals looking for a unique animal companion may be surprised at which animals are actually illegal to own as a pet in Vancouver.
Goats, ducks, and pot-bellied pigs are adorable and are just a few of the more unusual animals seen in people's homes.
Yet, these cute creatures, along with other domestic animals including sheep, horses, donkeys, cattle, turkeys, pheasants, and quail, are illegal to keep as pets unless they are in licensed pet shops or kennels, slaughterhouses (which Vancouver no longer has), or areas that allow keeping such animals.
Hens are an exception and Vancouverites can own no more than four hens at a time.
Even commonplace pets have a limit, according to the City of Vancouver bylaws.
Owners of hamsters, guinea pigs, tame mice, chinchillas, cats, rabbits, and other small animals and reptiles, including snakes, can keep only six. Meanwhile, those who own registered homing pigeons, canaries, budgerigars, parrots, parakeets, and other exotic birds (that the owner is legally permitted to keep) can keep only 12.
Those exploring more exotic pet options should note that these specific animals are prohibited to own as pets in Vancouver:
- Coyotes
- Foxes
- Jackals
- Wolves
- Hyenas
- Alligators
- Crocodiles
- Bears
- Lions
- Tigers
- Venomous reptiles and snakes
- Green anaconda
- Yellow anaconda
- Reticulated python
- African rock python
- Burmese python
- Indian python
- Amethyst python
