Reminder to keep dogs on leash at certain locations

Published on 04 July 2024

Dog owners within the Gannawarra Shire are reminded to adhere to laws relating to responsible pet ownership when in areas that animals need to be walked on a leash.

Council has received an increase in the number of dogs “off-leash” in areas where they need to be on a leash.

“While we know that most pet owners in our community are responsible and caring, we want to remind everyone of the importance of keeping their dogs leashed in designated areas to ensure the safety and well-being of all. This helps prevent any potential issues or incidents,” Gannawarra Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

As outlined in Council’s Dogs and Cats – Designated Areas policy, dogs must be kept on a leash at the following locations:

• At all recreation grounds within the municipality whilst a sporting fixture is taking place.
• Parks and playgrounds where children’s play equipment has been installed.
• Any local roads.
• Atkinson Park, Kerang.
• Apex Park, Cohuna.
• Garden Park, Cohuna.
• Gilrule Park, Cohuna.
• Gorton Point, Kangaroo Lake.

“Dogs can walk off-leash in other public places and at recreation reserves whilst a sporting fixture is not taking place, as long as they can respond to the owner’s command by the second call,” Mr Rollinson sad.

Owners are encouraged to ensure their dogs do not rush at or chase people, as this can lead to fines or having their pets declared menacing. In the unfortunate event of an attack, consequences could include court action, fines, or other serious penalties. It is an offence for an owner to fail to carry a suitable animal litter device to clean up after their dog if required.

It is also an offence for an owner to fail to carry a suitable animal litter device to clean up after their dog if required.

For more information, visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/animals, phone (03) 5450 9333 or visit Council’s Customer Service Centres at Cohuna and Kerang.