Severn Township resident Stephanie Dell is frustrated that the pet-sitting and dog-sitting business she ran out of her home was shut down in January because of a rule requiring her to have a kennel license. a dog
Under existing law, residents are prevented from receiving payment for such services without a permit, and kennel licenses are only issued to businesses on land designated as rural or agricultural. Dell’s home is on land designated as residential.
“As a young person who took the leap of faith to start a business, I felt like I was blindfolded and running an obstacle course,” Dell said.
Severn Mayor Mike Burkett emphasized the nuances of the bylaw, stressing that receiving a fee for pet sitting triggers the need for a kennel license, as outlined in official town plan.
Burkett said people can walk other people’s dogs for a living without a license and offer services at other dog owners’ homes, but they can’t bring the animal onto their property without no license.
The mayor said the town could consider amending the official plan, but admitted it could take years.
“Maybe we need to start thinking outside the box, but that’s a planning process that we need to do, and we will, but the staff needs to come back with a report on how we’re going to move forward with this and involve everyone in town.” said the mayor.
Councilwoman Wanda Minnings expressed the need for public consultation in decision-making processes.
“I think, as a council, we need a balanced response and information so we can make the best decision going forward,” Minnings said.
Despite the recession, Dell remains determined in his pursuit of business opportunities. He intends to refocus his efforts on alternative aspects of his business, such as dog walking, while actively seeking ways to obtain a kennel license for his residential property.
