TRC asks owners to keep dogs on a leash at off-leash areas

Toowoomba Regional Council is temporarily changing guidelines at dog off-leash areas to now ask that dogs remain on a leash.

Toowoomba Region Mayor-elect Paul Antonio said dogs must be effectively controlled in these areas.

There have been recent incidents that have seen loose dogs approach patrons, testing the ability of their owners to practise social distancing.

“The updated temporary restriction is designed to offer extra public health and safety precautions to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus,” Cr Antonio said.

“Council’s primary concern is to safeguard the community and the safest and most sensible option is to stop roaming dogs from approaching park visitors.

“Council’s dog off-leash areas are popular meeting places and during this pandemic we must follow all health guidelines to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus.

“Council is not removing dog off-leash parks; this is a temporary restriction to assist people in public parks to maintain social distancing in line with the federal and state government directives.”

To find the approved dog off-leash parks visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/dogoffleash

For more information on changes to Council services and facilities, due to the impact of the Coronavirus, visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/servicechanges