FridayOL

Sydney Councils Target Declining 'Pet Etiquette' with Heavier Fines

Two Sydney councils, Randwick City Council and Woollahra Council, are taking a firmer stance against irresponsible pet owners. They're pushing for increased fines to address what they've described as a worrying decline in 'pet etiquette' across the local area. The move comes as residents complain about a rise in pet-related issues, particularly the failure of owners to clean up after their dogs.

The Problem: More Than Just Droppings

While failing to pick up dog droppings remains a significant concern, the councils are also targeting a broader range of behaviours they deem unacceptable. This includes allowing pets to roam off-leash in designated areas, excessive barking causing disturbance to neighbours, and a general lack of consideration for others when enjoying public spaces with pets.

“We’ve noticed a concerning trend of pet owners not taking responsibility for their animals’ actions,” said a spokesperson for Randwick City Council. “It’s impacting the enjoyment of our parks and reserves for everyone, and we need to send a clear message that this behaviour won’t be tolerated.”

Proposed Changes: What You Need to Know

Currently, fines for pet-related offences in these areas typically range from around $250 to $500. The councils are proposing to significantly increase these penalties, potentially doubling or even tripling them in some cases. The exact figures are still being finalised, but the aim is to create a more substantial deterrent.

Woollahra Council echoed Randwick's concerns, stating that increased fines are a necessary step to ensure the responsible ownership of pets. They emphasised the importance of educating pet owners about their obligations and the impact their actions have on the community.

Community Reaction: Mixed Opinions

The proposed changes have been met with mixed reactions from the community. While many residents support the move to address irresponsible pet ownership, others have expressed concerns about the potential impact on responsible pet owners. Some argue that increased fines alone won't solve the problem and that more focus should be placed on education and enforcement of existing rules.

“I think it’s great that the councils are taking this seriously,” said local resident Sarah Jones. “It’s frustrating to see dog droppings everywhere and dogs running off-leash. But I hope the fines are applied fairly and don’t punish those of us who are responsible pet owners.”

What Can Pet Owners Do?

• Always carry dog waste bags and dispose of them properly.
• Keep your dog on a leash in designated areas.
• Be mindful of noise levels and prevent excessive barking.
• Respect the space of others and ensure your pet doesn’t harass other people or animals.
• Familiarise yourself with local council regulations regarding pet ownership.

The councils are expected to formally vote on the proposed changes in the coming weeks. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on the proposals through the council websites.

This crackdown highlights a growing concern among local authorities about the need for responsible pet ownership and the impact it has on the overall quality of life in Sydney communities.