Implement a range of strategies to minimise the impact of dogs on local wildlife species, including provisions in local planning schemes, education and awareness and regulation.
Why it is important?
Dogs can have a significant impact on our unique wildlife species, including some that are already facing significant threats like the Southern Cassowary, sea birds and turtles. Responsible pet ownership - keeping dogs secure within fenced yards, walking dogs on leads, avoiding taking dogs into natural habitat areas and following local government pet ownership requirements - can minimise these impacts. Regulatory options - such as preventing dogs in high value habitat areas - are also required to better protect our native wildlife.
Examples of Local Action
Identify areas of important cassowary habitat and use local government planning regulations to prevent people owning or taking dogs into those areas.
Establish dog-free areas along the foreshore to protect nesting sea birds and turtles.
Identify high conservation zones and designate them dog free (eg. foreshore areas with wildlife habitat and offshore marine parks, such as Garners Beach, Brookes Beach, Narragon Beach, Clump Headland). In areas adjacent to these high conservation areas, dogs should be allowed only on leads, while in urban areas with lower conservation values, designated off leash areas for dogs should be provided. Clear communication and signage is required to identify these zones.