Strathbogie Shire Council is encouraging pet owners and those managing livestock to do the right thing.
Council rangers will be increasing proactive patrols across the Shire to educate the community about responsible pet ownership.
“This means we’ll be watching for people walking their dogs off leash in public spaces and looking to ensure yards are secure to stop pets from wandering,” Cr Binks said.
“With pet ownership comes responsibility – you can ensure your pet and others are kept safe by following the requirements of the Domestic Animals Act around pet management.
“The best thing you can do is keep your dog on a leash when you’re out and about.
“Leashing dogs in public spaces, ensures you’re always in control of your dog.”
The Domestic Animals Act requires all dogs in public spaces to be on a lead. The only exemption is the Euroa Off-Leash Dog Park.
Cr Binks said, when everyone leashes, it:
- reduces unwanted and stressful dog interactions
- limits aggression and minimises bites
- keeps your dog safe and under control; and
- helps to protect our wildlife.
Council heard loud and clear during the development of its Domestic Animal Management Plan that the community wanted Council to do more to stop people doing the wrong thing.
“If you’re caught walking your dog off leash you will be fined,” she said.
“If your dog is found wandering and your yard is not secure, you will also be fined.”
“We are listening and we are taking action,” Cr Binks said.
“Pets are such an important part of our lives and we want to keep Strathbogie Shire safe for all pets, pet owners, residents and visitors to enjoy.
“There are more than 2000 registered dogs and around 500 registered cats living in Strathbogie Shire.”
Cr Binks reminded residents that there was also a limit in place of the number of animals that can be housed at a property in the Shire’s residential zones.
“Those living in a residential zone are permitted to house two cats, two dogs and five poultry and it’s important to remember that roosters of any kind are not permitted at a residential property,” she said.
The responsible housing of animals also extends to livestock management where fences on properties must be secure to ensure livestock cannot escape onto roads, causing traffic hazards.
If residents fail to comply with their legal responsibilities around responsible pet ownership and livestock management, significant penalties apply.
Dog owners can be fined $278 per dog that is wandering or off-leash between sunrise and sunset and $370 per dog between sunset and sunrise.
