Dog owners asked to keep their canines on leads

Dog walkers are being reminded to please keep their pets on leads unless they are in designated dog exercise areas.  The reminder, issued by Shire of Augusta Margaret River Rangers, comes as a result of increased public complaints regarding dogs being walked off-lead on public trails.  Shire Ranger Coordinator Sharon McTaggart said more people appear to be accessing the trails for socially-distanced exercise given COVID19 had caused the shutdown of recreational centres and facilities.  “People are generally doing very well at complying with social-distancing measures - and it’s obviously great to see the spin off effect of more dogs being walked - but please keep your pets on leads,” she said.  “It’s not a case of whether your dog is friendly or not, people don’t like be rushed at, jumped on, licked, or sniffed and some people have a genuine fear of dogs.  “Parents often don’t like dogs approaching their children or babies at eye level in prams, they can cause accidents with cyclists and will often approach other dogs that are on lead.  “Please be courteous, please be considerate, and please do the right thing by your fellow community members who are trying to share and enjoy the trails.” Shire Rangers are currently doing a trail signage audit to ensure dog owners are aware of their responsibilities, particularly at hotspot areas, with Darch Trail considered a priority area.  Rangers will be conducting foot patrols of problem areas with a focus on community education but Rangers warn infringements will follow if people are not heeding warnings and doing the right thing.  Dog owners are also reminded baiting programs are underway in National Park and pose a considerable threat to your dog’s health should they consume a bait.  Maps and information regarding the Shire’s designated dog exercise areas are available at www.amrshire.wa.gov.au