Mayor Cr Peter Cox said that with Greater Bendigo having approximately 6000 registered cats and 20,000 registered dogs it is important for people to make their views known via a questionnaire.

“The Council is providing ample opportunity for residents to have their say on issues that matter to them,” Cr Cox said.

“The City already has a curfew requiring cats to be confined from sunset to sunrise to help protect nocturnal species and reduce the time they are able to wander and create a nuisance.

“One of the questions being asked of residents is whether this control goes far enough or is 24-hour confinement – as is already in place for dogs – needed to better protect our native fauna and reduce nuisance issues.

“The City is also keen to hear people’s views on whether or not the City needs to open up more public space as off leash dog exercise areas.

“We know there are strong differences of opinion in our community on these two issues in particular.

“It is very important to have your say so Council can establish a Domestic Animal Management Plan that strikes a balance between the needs of pet owners and other people and groups in the community.”

 The plan’s objectives include:

• Promoting and encouraging responsible pet ownership

• Ensuring compliance with the Act and Regulations

• Planning for open space access for dogs

• Minimising the risk of dog attacks

• Addressing any over population and high euthanasia rates for dogs and cats

• Encouraging registration and identification of dogs and cats

• Minimising potential for dogs and cats to create a nuisance

• Identifying dangerous, menacing and restricted breed dogs

• Reviewing all existing orders and local laws that relate to dogs and cats

• Establishing a method for evaluating animal control services

• Identifying programs for training of authorised animal management officers

• Providing for the periodic evaluation of programs and service strategies

City Planning and Development Director Prue Mansfield said: “The practicality, benefit and cost of implementation of any changes needs to be taken on board as the Council considers how best to address animal management issues in Greater Bendigo”.

People can complete the questionnaire by picking up a hard copy at the City Offices in Bendigo and Heathcote or online at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au. Completed questionnaires will be received up to July 31, 2015.

Information gathered will also help to inform a review of the Animal Keeping Local Law.

Copies can be mailed out by contacting Anthony Schofield on 5434 6144.