Reminder to keep control of your pets

People out exercising with their dogs during the COVID-19 pandemic have been reminded to keep their hounds on a leash and not use unapproved reserves. Shire of Augusta-Margaret River and Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions rangers have fielded complaints from residents about dogs in unapproved areas. Shire rangers co-ordinator Sharon McTaggart said more people were out walking dogs because other exercise options were shut, with the result that some dogs were not under proper control. “It’s not a case of whether your dog is friendly or not,” she said. “People don’t like to be rushed at, jumped on, licked, or sniffed, and some people have a genuine fear of dogs. “Parents often don’t like dogs approaching their children or babies at eye level in prams. “They can cause accidents with cyclists, and will often approach other dogs that are on-lead.” Dogs off leads have been a problem at beaches too, with resident Carl Wheeler noting chaotic scenes recently at Redgate Beach when he visited. While the Shire confirmed the complaints, DBCA rangers said there were fewer “interactions recorded with dog owners” in national parks than previous years. “In general, dog owners responded positively to the educative approach taken by rangers,” a DBCA spokeswoman said. Shire rangers will continue patrols and asked for compliance to avoid the need to issue fines. Rangers also said baiting programs were taking place in some reserves and owners should show caution.