Last days to have your say on our pets plan
A new Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) has been drafted for Bayside to balance the needs and promote the safety and welfare of our pets, people and environment.
Have your say before consultation closes on Sunday 18 April 2022.
Bayside Mayor Alex del Porto said the review of the Domestic Animal Management Plan provides an opportunity for all residents - with and without pets - to share their experiences, as well as foster greater understanding of the value pets provide to the community.
Insights from extensive community research have led to proposed new actions and initiatives in the draft DAMP, which we need your feedback on.
Some of the proposed new DAMP actions:
- Transition to cat containment (day and night) for the safety of cats and native wildlife.
- Review dog on-leash and off-leash restrictions along the Bayside foreshore in 2025/26 to ensure beach access balances the needs of pets, people and the environment.
- Review the desexing rebate program to encourage puppy registrations.
- Increase patrols of reserves and foreshore during key times, such as summer and sport seasons.
- Establish community working groups to strengthen partnerships and provide ongoing community feedback on domestic animal issues.
- Improve information and support for pet owners with more frequent communication, events, training incentives, and smarter signage.
- Work with local sports clubs and dog owners to improve safe, shared use of off-leash sportsgrounds.
Council will also consider a report at its August 2022 meeting detailing the process to consider multiple open spaces throughout Bayside for the future provision of a secure dog park.
