Happy, excitable and great company, everyone (well nearly everyone) loves dogs and the joys they bring to our lives. But it's very important that our pups are cared for properly. That way, we can all have our tails wagging.
Throughout August, Kempsey Shire Council is delivering their Macleay Valley PAWgust campaign to help residents become responsible dog owners and to protect all creatures who call the Kempsey Shire home.
With the month-long Take the Lead initiative, every owner is invited to take a pledge to be a leader to their dog. The pledge is involves checking their dog's registration details, taking part in some online dog training, and keeping dogs on a lead, unless signposted otherwise.
The campaign highlights the importance of keeping dogs on leads for several reasons, most notably to protect the local koala population. Sadly, dog attacks are among the three most significant threats to the koalas in the area.
Thanks to grant funding, the first 150 residents to participate will be rewarded with a pledge pack, including a pet tag and a choice of lead, while additional weekly prizes will also be up for grabs.
This includes five weekly dog training videos available throughout September, opportunities for virtual 'check-ins' with experienced dog trainers, and assistance in ensuring their pet's registration is up to date.
But woof, there's more!
Every week in August we will be drawing a name at random from the pets who have taken the pledge to receive a voucher for one of the great pet services in the shire.
So, what do you say? Join us this Macleay Valley PAWgust and take the lead by pledging to be a responsible pet owner.