Once again as people visit beaches we have the situation where off-lead dogs are menacing people and other dogs.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Everybody has the right to be able to enjoy the beach. I have the right to be able to walk my dogs on lead without fear of them being attacked. People who are scared of dogs have the right to walk on the beach without dogs running up to them.
I am sick and tired of arguing with people who claim that their off-lead dogs are "being friendly" when they approach my dogs with body language that says the opposite.
As a veterinarian I have been dealing with dogs and their body language for 30 years and I know the difference.
Unfortunately MidCoast Council seems to have very little interest in policing responsible dog management . Even on their website they advocate leash free zones as a way to "allow dogs to exercise off the lead so they can 'burn off' excess energy in a safe environment without being a nuisance to the general public."
In my opinion having dogs off-lead on a crowded beach is not a safe environment and it is definitely a nuisance to the general public.
The answer is simple - allow off-lead use of the beach during certain times and on-lead at all other times. Put up some signage and police the usage and everyone can enjoy the beach.