Dogs in the Community Part of being a responsible dog owner is understanding that it's up to you to ensure that your dog is well behaved and manageable, both in public environments such as the park, or at home. A dog that is responsibly cared for will be appreciated by people who like dogs and are comfortable with them, and also by people who choose not to own a dog. As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to provide for your dog's general welfare, as a matter of priority. You also have a responsibility to the community in which you live. It does take some time and commitment on your part to ensure everyone's interests are respected. However, if you follow these general common sense rules, the rewards are there for everyone- you, your dog and your neighbours.   Check with your local Council to find out more about your responsibilities and rights as a dog owner in your municipality. In addition to providing information, your local Council also provides animal control services, handles complaints about animals, picks up stray dogs, and handles pet registrations. There are a number of responsibilities you have as a dog owner, that apply across all municipalities. Information about registering your pet is detailed on a separate page. Confining Dogs All dogs should be confined to the back yard of a "dog proof", fenced property and not be able to wander onto the streets. The majority of dog bites actually occur on the owner's property or on the property boundary line. Dogs regard their property as their domain and will naturally seek to protect it. Legally, people have right of way access to your front door. This means you are responsible if your dog bites someone who has entered your property and is going to or coming from the front door. Meters for utility services such as gas or electricity must also be positioned to allow the reader safe access. With this in mind, don't leave the gate open while you are washing the car or working in the garden. It is an offence if your dog is not confined to the yard and leaves the property. You are also liable if your dog attacks a person or another dog, damages property or causes a traffic accident outside your property. The solution is to ensure that your gate is closed so that your dog is confined and cannot wander from the property. Wandering dogs can not only become lost or stolen, but at worst can be severely injured or killed by motor vehicles. They also represent a hazard for pedestrians and bike riders. Barking Dogs Some people think it is normal for dogs to bark consistently. It isn't. Barking dogs are a nuisance and are not conducive to good neighbourly relations. Constant barking usually means the dog is bored, lonely or frustrated. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and companionship, and has a comfortable, safe and enclosed place to sleep. Obedience training can help stop dogs barking, but if previous attempts have failed, there are established services available that will provide professional advice on preventing behavioural problems such as barking. See Pet Industry Players. Other methods to limit barking are also available. On and Off leash Areas All dogs should be kept on a leash or under effective voice control while outside your property. Check with your Council regarding the location of 'on' and 'off' leash areas in your Municipality. Dog owners should still carry a leash at all times, and ensure the dog remains in sight even in off leash areas. Dog faeces Dog faeces are unsightly and unpleasant, particularly in environments such as the beach or park, and even more so when you step in them. It's also a major E-coli polluter when washed into the bay by storm water. When dogs are exercising in a public place, their owners are required to always clean up after them. This can be easily done by using a scooper, plastic or paper bag to remove and dispose of dog faeces. Many Councils provide these facilities in local parks. Training A dog that has been taught a few simple rules will become a well adjusted and well behaved family pet. Puppies should be taught basic manners and rules of the household as soon as they arrive in a new home. It's always a good idea to consider taking your dog to a local obedience club to be trained with the help of a qualified dog trainer. Importantly, your dog will also socialise with other dogs. A well trained dog is not only a pleasure to be around, but is less likely to be a nuisance to others.
	Responsible Pet Ownership Copyright / Disclaimer Last Updated: 18/02/2003 This site was designed and developed by KnowledgeWorks.