Dog ownership
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With Lachlan Shire Council’s Ranger having to investigate several alleged dog attacks over recent months, as well as having to impound numerous dogs that have been found roaming the streets, the need to remind dog owners of their responsibilities has arisen.
“Owning a dog, no matter how big or small comes with great responsibilities particularly in regard to the safety of your family and the community,” said Council’s Environmental and Waste Coordinator Mr Rowan Bentick.
“As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to ensure your dog is healthy, safe, well cared for, has adequate bedding, cannot escape from your premises/yard, well behaved, manageable and does not create a nuisance to your neighbours or the general community.”
It is essential that dog owners are fully aware of their responsibilities and obligations under the Companion Animals legislation, particularly when the dog is within a public place:
• If your dog is in a public place it must be under the effective control of a competent person by means of an adequate chain, cord or leash. The exceptions to this are, dogs exhibited at a show or engaging in obedience or agility trials or a dog secured in a cage or vehicle, or in an approved off-leash area;
• If your dog is being exercised in an approved off-leash area it must always be under effective control of a competent person;
• You are not permitted to walk more than four dogs at any one time in an on-leash area or an off-leash area;
• If your dog defecates in a public place it is an offence not to remove the faeces;
• Dogs are prohibited in children’s play areas, food preparation and consumption areas, recreation areas, public bathing areas, school grounds, child care centres, shopping areas and wildlife protection areas.
In addition to these general responsibilities there are greater responsibilities and controls should you own a “restricted breed” or own a dog that has been declared “dangerous”.
These can be found at the following link; https://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/view/html/inforce/current/act-1998-087#pt.5-div.4
Do not forget that all companion animals (dogs and cats) must be registered and micro-chipped.
If you need and further information regarding your responsibilities please contact Council on 6895 1900.