With summer in full swing, Shellharbour City Council is reminding residents of simple steps to keep our outdoor spaces safe, clean and fun for everyone. By being responsible dog owners, we can all enjoy a better experience for the community and our furry friends.
Caption: Person walking their dog along the Waterfront Shell Cove. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.
Shellharbour City is home to nearly 30,000 registered dogs, and many visitors also bring their pets along when they stay in the area.
All dogs are required to be on a leash to keep your dog, other animals, and people safe.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer emphasised the importance of responsible dog ownership for all community members.
"As we welcome the summer season, we encourage dog owners to enjoy our city's outdoor spaces while keeping the safety and wellbeing of their pets and the community in mind," he said.
"Together, we can ensure Shellharbour remains a respectful and pet-friendly place for all."
Shellharbour City Council has eight dog parks where your pet can run freely. In these areas, make sure your dog is under control and comes when called. You can find these areas on our Dog friendly spaces page. Many of these also have water fountains for you and your dog.
It's important to carry dog waste bags and clean up after your dog. Cleaning up after your dog is a simple way to contribute to a cleaner, healthier community and protect our environment. Please dispose of dog waste in red bins only.
Here are some tips to ensure your pets, and your neighbours enjoy Summer:
- Barking is normal for dogs. To manage barking, make sure your dog gets enough exercise and mental stimulation to reduce boredom.
- Reward your dog for being quiet in situations that usually cause barking.
- Consider consulting a dog trainer to help control barking.
- Excessive barking might also mean your dog is uncomfortable or in pain, so check with a vet if needed.
- In the craziness of the season, it may be easy for a gate to be left open and for your dog to escape. Remember to microchip your dog and check that your details are up to date.
If you're considering adding a furry friend to your family this holiday season, remember that pet ownership is a lifelong commitment. Adopting from Shellharbour City Council's lost dog registry not only gives a dog a loving home but also helps reduce the number of strays in our community.
For more information, visit our Responsible dog ownership page.
For more information please contact: Melissa Ritchie - Shellharbour City Council 0467 250 884 [email protected]
