Council is currently developing a new four-year Domestic Animal Management Plan.
In June we surveyed our residents to understand the issues that affect the community in regard to domestic animals - with particular reference to dogs and cats.
The results of this survey were collected and included in our draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2021-2025 which we are now seeking feedback on. This Plan sets out how Council will manage cats and dogs in the Shire over the next four years. It aims to promote responsible pet ownership and the welfare of pets, whilst protecting the community and environment from nuisance dogs and cats.
We invite your feedback on the draft Plan. This feedback will be considered during the preparation of the final Plan, which will be presented to Council for endorsement in November.
What is a Domestic Animal Management Plan?
Under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, every Victorian council must prepare a Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) every four years. The DAMP must set out council’s services, programs and initiatives to promote responsible pet ownership of dogs and cats within the community and to administer the requirements of the Act.
What is in the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan?
The draft DAMP outlines Council’s proposed objectives and priorities for the management of cats and dogs. It covers issues such as registration and identification, nuisance issues, dog attacks, dangerous menacing and restricted breed dogs, overpopulation, domestic animal businesses and animals in emergencies.
How was the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan developed?
In June we asked the community for feedback on domestic animal issues and services. We heard from 60 people through our survey and this feedback was used to develop the draft Plan.
Some of the common issues we heard included:
- Dogs being at large (roaming outside of their property)
- Dogs not being controlled by their owner in a public place
- Aggressive dogs
- Dog poo not being picked up
- Cats roaming and trespassing on others property
- Feral cats
- Residents unaware of what registration fees are used for and concerns that the fees do not provide value for money
- Residents unaware of some of the domestic animal laws and requirements
How do I provide feedback on the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan?
You can provide feedback by filling out the form below. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to speak with a Council officer to provide your feedback, please contact Belinda Bennett, Community Safety and Resilience Coordinator on 5593 7100.
Submissions have now closed.