Dog owners backing park

A MAJORITY of Surf Coast pooch lovers say they would lap up a proposed off-leash dog park in Torquay.

More than 90 per cent of people who took part in the Surf Coast Shire Council’s community consultation process said they would use a dog park for their furry friends.

Dog owners are being asked for input, including whether and how often they might use a dog park, where dogs are allowed off-leash, and how far they travel to use existing areas.

Only 3 per cent of respondents said they would not use a park while 83 per cent said they would use it at least weekly.

Council environment and development general manager Ransce Salan said he was yet to determine the next step, but “the level of support indicates it warrants further consideration”.

“No feasibility study, costing or scoping of location has previously been undertaken,” Mr Salan said.

“If we move ahead, one of our first steps would be to identify potential sites.”

The park would provide a fenced space to exercise and socialise dogs, but would only be for vaccinated and registered dogs.

Shire councillor David Bell said that the community surveys were part of the council’s preparation of a domestic animal management plan.

“We are just testing the water, seeking an idea of how many people might use a dog park in Torquay,” Cr Bell said.

“Dog parks can provide a great alternative to use of ovals and open spaces where conflicts between dogs and other users can be an issue.”

Mr Salan said of the 228 people who contributed to the survey, 185 responded to all of the multiple choice questions, and between 125 and 183 shared written responses.

“The survey also identified that people are having good experiences with existing arrangements,” he said.

“More than 60 per cent of people currently take their dogs to off-leash areas, including beaches.

“Eighty per cent of them said they had positive experiences, with 55 per cent saying they have good or great experiences interacting with other people and dogs in off-leash areas, and 25 per cent saying they have good or great experiences with some exceptions.”

Mr Salan said the findings suggested while the dog park was a popular project, it was not an urgent priority.