Walking your dog, the safe way

Council is encouraging pet owners to be mindful of safety as the number of residents hitting the city’s pathways and trails increases during lockdown.

Regulatory Services Coordinator Kathleen Bagshaw said it was important to have your pet securely on a lead and under your control.

“We’re happy to see so many residents out walking their dogs, as it’s wonderful for their pet’s health and wellbeing,” Ms Bagshaw said.

“We’d also like to remind pet owners of the need to keep their pet under their control always, from the moment they leave their house or car, until they return, as well as picking up their pet’s waste.

“The reasons to pick up after your pet are pretty obvious; we share our outdoor spaces with the rest of the community, so it’s the right thing to do. It’s also much safer, as dog waste can spread disease to other dogs, and wash into our drainage systems when it rains, carrying bacteria into our waterways.

“Keeping your dog on a lead means the people around you can enjoy their exercise time. Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, and having someone else’s dog lunging across the footpath, or running around freely can be anxiety-provoking, not to mention dangerous.

“Nearly every dog attack is a result of dogs not being on a lead or secured in their back yard, so please keep your dog on their lead, and make sure someone strong enough to manage the dog is holding that lead.”

If you want your dog to be able to run free, Ms Bagshaw recommended visiting one of Council’s eight designated off-leash areas.

“Our off-leash areas are the perfect place to let your dog run, exercise and socialise leash-free with other dogs.”

NSW legislation requires that all dogs in a public place must be under effective control by means of an adequate chain, cord or leash that is attached to the dog and is held by (or secured to) a person.

Find your nearest dog off-leash area at wagga.nsw.gov.au/city-of-wagga-wagga/community/animals