Calling for consultation on off-leash dog parks

Moira Shire Council is exploring ways to make the shire more dog friendly by investigating the installation of fully fenced off-leash dog parks.

Mayor Libro Mustica said Council was looking at creating a policy to guide the creation and management of dog off-leash areas and wants input by the community in the development of the policy.

“Dogs can currently be exercised off-leash, in the presence of the owner, in daylight hours at showgrounds and football grounds at recreation reserves across Moira Shire,” Cr Mustica said.

“To help us with the development of this new policy we are asking the community to fill in a short survey on our website with questions including which off-leash dog areas do you use currently, have you visited on off-leash dog park, and do you support the provision of a fully fenced off-leash dog park in Moira Shire.”

Cr Mustica said there were many benefits an off-leash dog park had to offer.

“It gives your pet an opportunity to be free of a leash, an opportunity to roam in a large area and, perhaps most importantly, an off-leash dog park gives your pet an opportunity to socialise with other dogs,” he said.

“Dog parks don’t just benefit your beloved pets.

“In recent years, there have been studies showing clearly playing and walking dogs improve your own physical, mental and social health.

“Off-leash dog parks also provide a safe place for older people or people with disabilities who may not be able to walk their dogs a long distance.”

For more information or to have your say go to our website and complete the survey.