Your Dog. Your Community’s Safety. Your Responsibility.

Published on 09 February 2026

Our Community Safety Officers are under immense pressure. Every week, more dogs are escaping from yards - and the consequences are serious. Council’s pound facility is at full capacity, and we need you to help us to stop wandering dogs. 

With an increase in wandering dogs, comes the potential risk of a rise in dog attacks on both people and other animals. These attacks are distressing for the victims, for our officers who respond to these incidents and for dog owners whose pets end up in already full impound facilities.

The consequences don’t stop there; wandering dogs are at risk of:

• Contracting viruses such as parvo, worms, etc.
• Cause car accidents/traffic incidents
• Incur expensive impounding fee’s.

And so much more…

Here’s how you can help change this:

• Secure your yard - Dogs that can get out, will. Unsecured gates and fences are the #1 reason dogs escape.
• Register your dog - Registration isn’t about revenue. It funds community safety efforts, helps us return lost dogs home faster and supports education and enforcement programs.
• Microchip and update your contact details - This is the fastest way to reunite pets with their families.
• Be a good neighbour - Your dog’s behaviour affects others. A dog at large can frighten or harm people, other pets and livestock. If you need help to keep your dog contained, talk to your local vet or visit Council’s website for tips. 

Let’s work together to be responsible pet owners. It’s not just about your dog - it’s about your community.

My Pet. My Responsibility.