Published on 19 September 2023
Ten months on from the launch of Council’s Dogs in Public Spaces technique, elevated enforcement and extra schooling and signage helps folks to do the fitting factor after they’re out and about with their dogs and at our Shire’s canine seashores and foreshore areas.
“We still have plenty of work to do but I am pleased to report our rangers are starting to see shifting behaviours and greater awareness about dogs in our public spaces,” Council’s Manager Public and Environmental Services, Sarah Nagel, mentioned.
Between March and May this 12 months, Animal Enforcement Officers issued 53 p.c extra animal-related fines than between the identical dates in 2022.
“Our fines are up because we’ve been rotating shifts for our staff to actively patrol hot spots, dog prohibited areas and dog exercise areas at different times throughout the day – on foot and in cars,” Ms Nagel mentioned.
“Whilst we can’t be in every single place without delay, our method is to make sure our patrols embrace a component of shock.
“Dog owners are surprised to see us early in the morning or late in the evening and it’s a good opportunity for us to get our messages out to a wider cross-section of the community,” she mentioned.
Council additionally not too long ago put in footpath stencils in Byron Bay, Brunswick Heads, Ocean Shores, Bangalow and Mullumbimby to extend consciousness, with extra coming in different places across the Shire.
“The footpath stencils are easy for everyone to understand including visitors who are here with their dogs,” Ms Nagel mentioned.
It’s encouraging extra involvement from the entire neighborhood who’re calling out dangerous behaviours.
“We have also been busy on the education front with our dedicated Animal Education and Enforcement Officer doing a great job through the school education program,” she mentioned.
“It’s pleasing to see positive results and shifting behaviours in this first important year of our 10-year strategy; however, the most vital part is that dog owners must be responsible” she mentioned.
More info on Dogs in Public Spaces is on Council’s web site.
