Ipswich City Council has developed a new code of conduct for dog owners to consider when taking their four-legged friends to off-leash dog parks.
Health, Security and Community Safety Committee Chairperson Cr Sheila Ireland said the new code and accompanying signs were in response to the Council’s pet management – Health and Amenity Plan 2017-18.
“One of the priorities of the plan deals with barking dogs, roaming dogs, dog control in public and on private property and responsible dog ownership,” she said.
“The HAP priority seeks to encourage socialisation of dogs in DOLAs, while focusing owners on appropriate dog behaviours and responses. The code of conduct and visual aspects on proposed signage moves away from Council’s historical regulatory signage models to deliver key messaging in a positive and unique fashion.
“DOLAs are designed to be self-regulating areas where dogs are able to be exercised and socialised. Feedback from dog owners, in response to compliance activities and complaints in DOLAs, indicates confusing interpretations of the concept of ‘effective control’ and appropriate behaviours in off leash areas.”
Cr Ireland said the code of conduct would focus on key messages, including:
- You can see your dog at all times
- Your dog will come to you when called
- You have a leash to secure your dog quickly if necessary
- Promoting swift intervention if your dog behaves aggressively
- Adequate supervision of children in and around the DOLA
- Ensure your dog isn’t annoying other park users
- Cleaning up after your dog
- Vaccination reminder
Cr Ireland said signs would be installed on entry gates with additional information provided by Council including ways to report incidents or request park maintenance.
“DOLAs are designed to promote socialisation and exercise activities for dogs and their owners,” she said.
“It is not the intent of Council’s Animal Management or Community Compliance areas to heavily regulate such areas, but rather, to promote a community standard which can be supported by education campaigns.”
Cr Ireland said Council will also conduct a park patrol program in Limestone Park, Battye Park and Colleges Crossing to promote responsible dog control provisions in public parks. The program seeks to address a growing number of complaints from the public with a particular focus on roaming and off leash dogs.
“These locations are included as there are existing compliance issues around dog control in these spaces, in particular dogs being allowed off leash and harassing other dogs (and their owners) and park users,” she said.
“Officers will be able to assist park users with advice on leash free areas and remind dog owners of the reasons why they need to use a leash and clean up after their pet in our parks.”
