Port Stephens people are pet lovers, and with the longer days and warmer weather, we're out walking our furry friends more regularly. With summer approaching, dog off leash times have changed at Birubi Beach.
While dogs are welcome year round, from October to April they're only allowed off leash between 5pm and 9am.
Remember to keep at least 100m away from the flagged area. Fines for breaches of these rules start at $330.
Picking up after your dog
Dog droppings can contain harmful bacteria and parasites, so it's important to pick up your dog's droppings when out and about.
When it rains, fecal matter washes into our drainage systems, carrying bacteria into our waterways, and finding their way into other living things – including us. Dog waste can also be harmful to native fauna, and other dogs.
Council asks that dog walkers carry waste bags whenever they take their pup out, collect poo immediately and dispose of it in a waste bin.
Keeping dogs leashed in public areas
Our parks, reserves and beaches are here for everyone to enjoy and feel safe at, so here's a friendly reminder of dog owners' responsibilities when out in Port Stephens with their pooch:
- Under the Companion Animals Act, dogs must be kept on a leash and under effective control at all times when out in public.
- In designated off-leash areas, you'll still need to maintain effective control over your dog, even if they're off leash. Stay close to your dog, and be ready to restrain them if they demonstrate aggressive or anti-social behaviour.
Keeping your dog on a leash can help prevent potential dog attacks. Fines for dog attacks are $1320, and $330 for dogs off leash outside of designated 'off leash areas'.
