Your dog and the bushland
People ask, why should my dog be kept on a leash in the bushland when the footpaths are fenced off?
Firstly, if you are reading this, we expect that you are a responsible dog owner and set a good example. Dog owners are more likely to feel obliged to leash their dog when they believe other people expect dogs to be leashed, and when they believe their dog is a threat to wildlife or people.
You are probably not one of the people who:
- Left dog poo on the paths
- Picked up the dog poo and then threw the bag into the bush
- Let your dog escape into the bush through the hole in the fence
- Have a dog that jumps up on people or picks fights with other dogs.
The simple answer is, you are liable for a $200 fine if your dog is not on a leash. The ranger visits regularly and will issue that fine.
Reasonable people want to know why
So here are some facts that may help you persuade other dog owners to keep their dog on a leash in this bushland.
- This bushland is home to over 200 species of native plants, more than 70 bird species and 16 reptile species.
- While a dog may not physically touch an animal such as a bobtail, being chased or approached by a dog causes them harm.
- If threatened, goannas may defend themselves and cause injury to your dog
- Unleashed dogs can be especially stressful for migrating birds like the rainbow bee-eater.
- The mere scent of dogs can cause a bird that is resting to go on alert.
- Dog walking (even on leads) in bushland has been shown to lead to a reduction in bird diversity and abundance.
Dog Exercise Areas and Pet Etiquette » Town of Victoria Park
