Scrutiny on dog laws
PET owners will have a chance to have their say on proposed changes to dog control policy in the region.
Geelong council last week approved a draft dog controls in public places policy — which dictates how the city handles dog control policy in the region — following 469 responses as public feedback.
The feedback spoke of a need for safe and shared public spaces — including more enforcement for those considered irresponsible owners with poorly behaved dogs.
The policy includes strict seasonal off and on-leash restrictions for beaches in Portarlington, Indented Head and St Leonards to Edwards Point, established with Bellarine Bayside.
New restrictions for offleash areas around Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula include: HANDLERS must at all times have the means to pick up and dispose of dog droppings — penalties apply; DOG owners must have a leash in their possession at all times; and, WHEN encountering other people or animals in the area, the dog must be recalled and restrained until the parties have moved a safe distance apart.
Mayor Bruce Harwood said the overarching issue heard by council was the need for people to take responsibility for the behaviour of their dogs.
“It’s important that the community has safe shared spaces so people can enjoy walking their dogs, running, riding and playing sport,” Cr Harwood said.
“These changes to the policy will give the city more opportunity to implement preventive action and highlight the importance of responsible ownership to the many dog owners in Greater Geelong.”
Several changes have also been made to exclusion zones across the area where dogs are prohibited, including: ARTIFICIAL sporting playing surfaces; OVALS and reserves where organised sport is being played (playing area only); and, COUNCIL buildings and offices, not including service animals.
Council plans to undertake an audit of signage around the region relating to dog management to ensure all restrictions are clearly understood.
The amendments to the dog controls in public place policy will be made available for community comment for six weeks at geelongaustralia.com.au/ yoursay.