Shire of Augusta-Margaret River in a stink over dog owners and their problem pets

Shire of Augusta-Margaret River rangers have issued yet another warning to dog owners after earlier pleas to pick up after their pets seemingly fell on deaf ears. The shire has reiterated a warning issued late last year that if dog-poo is not removed from key recreation spots, those locations could be taken off the dog exercise list. Residents have complained online about an increase in excrement. Hotspots for doggy dump sites include Nippers Oval in Margaret River and the Cowaramup Oval, though beach dog exercise areas remained a poo problem too. The Georgette Way and Narda Avenue footpaths in Prevelly were also cited as areas of concern. Ranger services co-ordinator Narelle Graue said compliance with cleaning up would be taken into account in future reviews of the exercise areas. “If you’re a dog owner, please make sure you pick up your dog’s poo, and if you’re someone who shares these recreational spaces and you see others not doing the right thing, politely ask them to pick up after their dog to ensure these areas are remain dog-friendly,” she said. “Although these areas have been listed as dog exercise areas, they are subject to change if people continue to do the wrong thing. “We want to continue building positive relationships between rangers and dog owners. “While it’s not our job to pick up poo, we are out there assisting to help preserve these areas for your furry four-legged friends.” Ms Graue also encouraged residents to chat directly with rangers to get information and help on any problem matters. She warned one complaint per fortnight per area during the next six months would “result in the loss of these dog-friendly zones”. The news got worse for non-compliant owners, with warnings some areas were monitored by CCTV which would be used for enforcement measures. The council has backed changes to exercise areas during the past two years, with no areas planned for some residential zones while beach exercise areas remain under review depending on the outcome of the rangers’ plea.