The draft domestic Animal Management Plan, now open to public consultation, has rejected calls for a 24 hour curfew on cats, and advocates the removal of bag dispensers for dog manure in public parks.

The report maintains bag dispensers have led to problems with litter and vandalism, and proposes a bylaw that dog owners will have to carry their own bags.

The draft amendments animal control laws are the result of public submissions, community forums and work with a number of animal groups including the RSPCA, Lost Dogs Home, Parks Victoria and the Department of Primary Industries.

There is now a four-week period for public comment.The draft plan has rejected calls for other proposals including mandatory leashing of dogs at sporting grounds, designated off-leash areas and mandatory desexing of animals.

But the plan has advocated mandatory leashing in shopping centres and within 10 metres of playgrounds and barbecue areas.

The council had previously allowed dogs to remain off leash at the majority of its 400 parks, with signposting limited to on-leash areas.

Barking problems will be addressed with a number of moves, including trials of barking counters and muzzles.

However, cats will be given a bit more breathing space with the draft rejecting the recommendation to extend the cat curfew to 24 hours a day.

Cr Trudi McClure said the laws were about developing better animal care through better ownership.

"There is widespread acceptance of the need to encourage responsible pet ownership," Cr McClure said.

Cr Julie Rivendell recognised there would be controversial elements to the plan, but said the plan was about finding a balance between the privileges of owning a pet and public amenity.

Cr Wayne Gregson said the suggestions outlined in the draft plan were practical and workable and rightly put the onus on the owner.

He added that he was disappointed Bendigo vets and wildlife rescue groups had not made a contribution.