DOG owners are being urged by Gannawarra Shire Council to keep their canine companions on-leash in mandated areas.
There has been an increase in the number of dogs off-leash.
Dogs are required to be kept on a leash at all recreation grounds across the Gannawarra municipality while sporting events are on.
Leashing is also necessary on any local roads, as well as any parks and playgrounds where play equipment has been installed.
Kerang’s Atkinson Park, Kangaroo Lake’s Gorton Point and Apex, Garden and Gilrule parks in Cohuna require dogs to be on a lead.
Gannawarra Shire Council chief executive Geoff Rollinson said the leashing of dogs “helps prevent any potential issues or incidents”.
“Dogs can walk off-leash in other public places and at recreation reserves whilst a sporting fixture is not taking place, as long as they can respond to the owner’s command by the second call,” he said.
“While we know that most pet owners in our community are responsible and caring, we want to remind everyone of the importance of keeping their dogs leashed in designated areas to ensure the safety and well-being of all.”
Dog owners are also required to carry a suitable animal litter device, to ensure they can clean up after their dog when necessary.
And owners are required to ensure their dogs do not rush or chase people, at the risk of fines or their dogs being declared as menacing.
In the case of a dog attack, owners can face court action, fines or other serious penalties.
For more information on responsible pet ownership in the Gannawarra Shire Council visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/animals
